Manila: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday informed the public about the implementing circular on the temporary suspension of institutionalization of the new schedule of fees and charges. FDA Advisory No. 2025-0511 sets the guidelines for the suspension of Administrative Order (AO) No. 2024-0016 and its annexes.

According to Philippines News Agency, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stated that the suspension of AO No. 2024-0016 was "in light of feedback and concerns expressed by various sectors and key stakeholders, and pursuant to an internal review conducted to evaluate operational efficiency, several areas for service enhancement were identified." The suspension will last for a period of 60 days, unless earlier lifted or extended by the Secretary of Health.

During this suspension period, the schedule of fees and charges and the validity of authorizations will adhere to DOH AO No. 50, series of 2001, and other applicable issuances prior to the implementation of AO 2024-0016 and its annexes. Fees and charges already paid in accordance with AO 2024-0016 before the circular's effectivity will be maintained.

Applicants who submitted their applications before the suspension of AO 2024-0016 and have not yet paid may request a new order of payment in line with AO 50, series of 2001, and other previous policies. Alternatively, they may proceed with payment following AO 2024-0016.

FDA Director General Paolo Teston recommended the temporary suspension to acknowledge the ongoing economic recovery of industries, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises. The agency aims to maintain regulatory compliance that is accessible and sustainable while improving the efficiency, clarity, and responsiveness of its regulatory services during the suspension period.

The FDA also reaffirmed its commitment to its mandate of protecting public health by ensuring access to safe, effective, and high-quality health products.