The government of the Philippines is to proceed with controversial plans to begin the parallel importation of key drug products. In August, it was claimed that the scheme — which had received criticism in light of quality and safety concerns — would be cancelled following pressure from multinationals.

However, state procurement giant the Philippines International Trading Corporation will now set up a new unit to be known as PITC Pharma, with initial capital of PHP100mn (US$1.8mn). The agency will aim to reduce local drug prices — reportedly among the highest in Asia — through "various strategies," according to official sources. The government is also currently introducing a chain of low-cost, state-run pharmacies, and has pledged new regulatory measures to control drug prices.