SEN. Raffy Tulfo said Tuesday the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has failed to curb the widespread sale of counterfeit medicines in the country, claiming the agency has allowed corruption to thrive within its ranks.
During a hearing of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Tulfo presented what he claimed were imported Chinese medical products and drugs that are easily purchased in Binondo, Manila, despite lacking FDA authorization.
Tulfo said such products circulate openly in the local market.
“This shows how weak the FDA is in enforcing its mandate,” the senator said.
The items presented by the senator included counterfeit over-the-counter medications for fever, cough, and colds, which he said are sold in neighborhood stores. He warned that fake medicines pose a serious threat to public health.
Tulfo also alleged corruption within the agency, claiming some officials accept bribes in exchange for issuing certifications and product approvals.
The senator added that he was able to purchase supplements approved by regulatory authorities in other countries that remain unapproved by the Philippine FDA, raising questions about the agency's consistency and efficiency.
FDA Director General Paolo Teston said the agency is chronically understaffed, which hinders enforcement and the timely processing of applications.
The Senate committee, chaired by Sen. Risa Hontiveros, is expected to continue its investigation into the alleged proliferation of counterfeit medicines and corruption within the FDA.