Seoul, 26 June 2026 — Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez joined the ceremony marking Canada’s accession to the International Vaccine Institute Establishment Agreement at IVI Headquarters in Seoul on 23 June 2026.

In her congratulatory remarks, Ambassador Fernandez welcomed Canada as IVI’s newest State Party. “With Canada now joining IVI as a State Party, we see new possibilities for cooperation among the Philippines, Canada, IVI, and the wider IVI family. This is the kind of partnership the world needs: one that connects countries, institutions, scientists, health workers, and communities in pursuit of a common good,” the Ambassador said. She said Canada’s accession strengthens the wider community of countries working together on vaccine development, equitable access, and stronger health systems. She also noted that the Philippines, as current president of the IVI Global Council and a longstanding IVI State Party, looks forward to working with Canada, IVI, the Republic of Korea, and other partners in advancing vaccine cooperation.

The Philippine Embassy in Seoul also participated in the 2026 Global Vaccine Forum on 25 June 2026. Hosted by IVI, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, and the RIGHT Foundation, the forum brought together governments, international organizations, scientists, industry leaders, and diplomats to discuss next-generation vaccines, global access, regulatory cooperation, and immunization strategies for aging populations. Through its engagement with IVI and partners in the Republic of Korea, the Philippines remains an active voice for vaccine equity, health resilience, and stronger international cooperation in public health. END