18/04/2021
CIDG TO ASSIST FDA IN GOING AFTER UNREGULATED SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF IVERMECTIN DRUGS
The CIDG, as the premier investigative arm of the PNP, has been in the forefront of suppressing all forms of criminal activities in the country in support of the PNP’s anti-criminality campaigns.
As the country is facing one of its toughest battles -- fighting COVID-19 -- the government is seeking ways and means to overcome this fight, from finding cures to hindering criminals or those with criminal intent from taking advantage of the scare brought by the pandemic.
Recently, reports on the presence of unregistered anti-parasite drug known as “Ivermectin” in the market and its use to counter COVID-19 contrary to the FDA approval of its use only for animals have emerged. Thus, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), through its released advisories and press statement on the purchase and use of said drug, also requested the Local Government Units (LGUs) and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to ensure that said product will not be sold or used in their respective areas of responsibilities.
In response to PRRD’s directive last March 24, 2021 and in coordination with the FDA, the CIDG has taken appropriate action on said occurrence by directing its subordinate units to implement measures to monitor the dispense and use of Ivermectin across the country and to conduct investigation and intensify police operations against any violations of RA 9711 and of the FDA's Compassionate Special Permit (CSP).
CIDG Director, PMGEN ALBERT IGNATIUS D FERRO said that they will go after those who will violate the said provisions specifically on fake, unregistered/unlicensed, and no permit on the sales and distribution of the said drugs. The CIDG will assist the FDA in suppressing or deterring lawless elements in their criminal acts of endangering the well-being of the community.
“We strongly advise the public to seek professional help and opinion before using the said drug and buy only from authorized sources. We also encourage them to report any illegal dispense and use of the said medicine." added PMGEN FERRO.