The Philippine government is facing a challenge in managing 243 ultra-low temperature freezers (ULTFs) originally purchased for storing Covid-19 vaccines. The Commission on Audit (COA) has recommended a comprehensive plan to repurpose these idle assets, considering their remaining lifespan and potential uses in storing biological materials or supporting research.
With the Covid-19 pandemic no longer posing a significant health threat, the Philippine government is facing a dilemma regarding the utilization of 243 ultra-low temperature freezers (ULTFs) purchased for 152 million pesos. These freezers, acquired by the Department of Health (DOH) at a cost of 626,000 pesos each, were intended to store Covid-19 vaccines in various cold storage facilities across the country.
However, as the urgency for vaccine storage diminishes, the government is seeking ways to repurpose these assets. According to a recent audit report by the Commission on Audit (COA), 26 units of the ULTFs have already become defective, leaving 243 in operational condition. The COA expressed concern about the potential for these remaining units to remain unutilized or inefficiently employed, thereby hindering the realization of their intended benefits. The report emphasized that failing to effectively repurpose the ULTFs would result in a loss of government funds and the value of donations received for the equipment. Given the estimated 10-year lifespan of the ULTFs, the COA stressed the importance of maximizing their remaining utility. The report recommended that the DOH develop a comprehensive plan to repurpose the idle ULTFs, outlining potential uses such as storing other essential biological materials, clinical specimens, or supporting research activities. The plan should also include a clear timeline for implementation and a mechanism for monitoring and evaluation
Covid-19 Vaccine Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers Repurposing Government Spending
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Edgar Matobato Escapes Philippines, Seeks Justice at the ICCEdgar Matobato, a former assassin of Rodrigo Duterte's notorious Davao Death Squad, has escaped the Philippines and is seeking justice at the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bombshell news highlights the reality of Duterte's extrajudicial killings and offers hope for accountability.
Read more »
Philippines Seeks UN Security Council Seat, Embarks on Diplomatic BlitzThe Philippines is vying for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, aiming to serve from 2027 to 2028. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched the bid, emphasizing the country's experience in peacebuilding. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo is leading a diplomatic campaign to secure support.
Read more »
Philippines Seeks to Attract Digital Nomads with Proposed VisaThe Philippines is pushing to become a hub for digital nomads by supporting a proposed Digital Nomad Visa. The Department of Tourism believes the visa will attract remote workers and boost the economy.
Read more »
Philippines Seeks Regional Cooperation to Advance Nuclear Energy AgendaThe Philippines Department of Energy is exploring regional partnerships with ASEAN countries to bolster its nuclear energy program. The DOE emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in training human resources and emergency response. The country is actively engaging with various international partners, including the United States, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and South Korea, to advance its nuclear energy goals.
Read more »
Philippines Seeks Regional Cooperation for Nuclear Energy DevelopmentThe Philippines Department of Energy is open to regional cooperation with ASEAN countries to advance its nuclear energy agenda. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach, not only for emergency response but also for training human resources. Lotilla also highlighted the Philippines' intention to explore partnerships beyond the US, including with Japan, UAE, and Korea, for technical expertise and cooperation in the energy sector. The Philippines received positive feedback from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on its nuclear power program progress, noting significant advancements in addressing recommendations and adopting a national position for a nuclear energy program.
Read more »
Philippines to ‘respond favorably’ if ICC seeks Interpol arrest warrants over drugs crackdownThousands of people were killed in ex-president Duterte's anti-drugs crackdown launched in 2016, many in mysterious circumstances, prompting the ICC to launch an investigation into possible crimes against humanity
Read more »