MANILA – The Japanese government has donated PHP46 million worth of COVID-19-related equipment to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).
The laboratory equipment and supplies are part of Japan’s grant aid to assist the country in its battle against the novel coronavirus, the Embassy said in a statement on March 24.
It added that the specialized medical equipment will extensively equip RITM in the conduct of clinically meaningful advanced research and improve its productivity several degrees higher as a center for excellence on infectious and tropical diseases.
In his speech during the turnover ceremony, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa expressed hopes that “the RITM will continue to build strong health bridges between the Philippines and Japan in contributing to the prevention and control not just of COVID-19, but also other emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.”
Also present in the event were Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, RITM Director Celia Carlos and JICA Chief Representative Takema Sakamoto.
Japan has continuously stepped up its partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) for comprehensive assistance to beat the pandemic. - FJJ
(Photo courtesy of Japan Embassy, Manila)
