The government will further lower the suggested retail prices (SRPs) of RT-PCR and antigen tests, according to Secretary Ramon Lopez of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Lopez told reporters the DTI is also working on the SRPs of antigen self-test kits in preparation for the possible sale of these at retail.
But for now, DTI Assistant Secretary Ann Cabochan said these are not allowed to be sold in the Philippines as the Food and Drug Administration has yet to grant certification for their sale.
At the moment, antigen tests are only administered by hospitals, clinics and testing centers.
Lopez said the new SRPs on RT-PCR and facility- administered antigen tests are targeted to be released by Friday.
This is the second round of price cuts on these tests since the SRPs were released in August 2021.
The new prices will be based on supplier price and logistics costs.
Lopez said DTI also targets to release the SRP on antigen self-test kits by Friday.
RT-PCR is capped at P2,450 in public hospitals and P2,940 for private facilities. Antigen is capped at P960.
Cabochan told Laging Handa public briefing the government can run after those who are selling self-test kits whether online or in physical stores.
Cabochan said establishments found to be selling RT-PCR and antigen tests at costs higher than the SRPs can be penalized. – Irma Isip
