MANILA, Philippines — March 31, 2026 —The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public about tampered and counterfeit anti-rabies vaccines circulating in the Philippine market, following a raid in Taguig City that uncovered an illegal repacking and relabeling facility. 

Authorities stressed that these compromised vaccines pose serious health risks as they were not stored under proper cold chain management.

The FDA confirmed that its enforcement team seized large quantities of suspected falsified anti-rabies vaccines, along with anti-tetanus and hepatitis B shots, during a raid on an unlicensed residential facility in Taguig. 

Investigators found repackaging materials and distribution notebooks, which are now being used to trace individuals who may have already purchased or received the compromised vaccines.

FDA spokesperson Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado explained that while the suspects claimed their products were legitimate, the facility was operating without authorization and failed to comply with strict storage requirements. 

“Ang sabi sa atin ng mga accused ay lehitimo naman daw po ang mga kinukuha nilang bakuna… Ang nakakabahala po rito ay hindi ito dumaan sa proper cold chain management,” she said in a radio interview.

The FDA emphasized that vaccines not handled under proper cold chain conditions lose their efficacy and can endanger patients. Officials warned the public against buying cheap, uncertified anti-rabies shots from unauthorized sources, noting that rabies remains a deadly disease that requires reliable and properly stored vaccines for effective prevention.

The agency is now investigating the extent of distribution and has vowed to hold accountable those involved in the illegal operation. Authorities are also coordinating with local government units and health facilities to identify possible recipients of the tampered vaccines and ensure they receive proper medical guidance.

This development highlights the growing threat of counterfeit medical products in the Philippines, particularly in high-demand areas such as rabies prevention. The FDA reiterated its call for the public to purchase vaccines only from licensed hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies accredited by the Department of Health.

The crackdown serves as a reminder that compromised vaccines not only waste resources but also put lives at risk. With rabies continuing to be a public health concern in the country, the FDA’s warning underscores the importance of vigilance and strict regulation in safeguarding the health of Filipinos.