MANILA/TOKYO – Avigan’s effectiveness against the new coronavirus remains undetermined, but several countries, including the Philippines, are optimistic about testing this Japanese antiviral drug to see if it can treat patients suffering from the deadly virus.

TOKYO – Filipino residents of Japan are to face stricter rules when re-entering the country.

MANILA/TOKYO – The Philippine government is considering stockpiling Japan-made antiviral drug Avigan to treat severe cases of the new coronavirus.

MANILA – The Japan International Cooperation Agency is giving additional support to the Philippines' COVID-19 response through laboratory equipment and supplies for use of the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) and San Lazaro Hospital as virus cases rise.