DOH set to probe pharma firm

The Department of Health (DOH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) are set to conduct an investigation on the alleged unethical practices of a local pharmaceutical company owned by physicians.

- RHODINA VILLANUEVA

The DOH, through its public health ethics committee and the FDA, as well as the PRC agreed to form a joint committee for investigation (JCI), to which they will also invite the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“The JCI will help reduce redundancy and expedite due process requirements regarding the many allegations aired at the Senate hearing, ensuring that the integrity of the medical profession is protected while holding accountable those found to have violated pertinent laws, rules, and regulations,” the DOH said in a statement.

It added that the JCI will also be seeking inputs and comments from professional bodies like the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), Philippine Pharmacists Association and Philippine Hospital Association (PHA).

“Legal advisers of the JCI are also looking into possible mechanisms to protect whistleblowers so that they may provide actionable information and evidence,” said the DOH.

This developed after the Senate on April 30 conducted a hearing on the alleged unethical marketing practices by Bell-Kenz Pharmaceutical Inc. that is being run by physicians.