An organization for local barcode standards said widespread use of barcode technology, including Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), can help ensure authenticity of medicines.
GS1 Philippines said this technology can help the market rid itself of fake medicines, ensuring safety for manufacturers and consumers.
GS1 said the Philippines has been identified as a leading source of counterfeit medicines as reported by the US Trade Representative and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.
Barcodes are tools in tracking and verifying medicines from manufacturers to end-users. GTINs, for example, standardize labeling and tracking systems, streamline the management of medicines and supplies, and improve the supply chain.
GTINs can capture crucial data, such as the date of manufacture, expiration date, and the manufacturer’s name, enhancing product identification and verification.
“The threat of counterfeit medicines compromises both consumer safety and trust in healthcare providers. By leveraging barcode technology, we can establish a cohesive integration of global standards that prioritizes patient safety, particularly in regions facing serious challenges with counterfeit products,”said Roberto Claudio, president of GS1 Philippines.
Teodoro Padilla, executive director of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines and officer and trustee of GS1 Philippines, said the group supports this innovation as he acknowledged its potential to verify products and prevent counterfeit medicines from reaching patients.
GS1 Philippines said its initiatives complement the government’s vision of modernizing the delivery and supply chain in the healthcare sector.
It cited recent reports from the Department of Health on the discovery of over P 1 million worth of expired medicines in Albay.
Global markets are to shift to 2D barcodes by 2027, aligning with international standards. With the adoption of 2D barcodes, which include QR codes, products can carry comprehensive data and create engaging consumer experiences while ensuring accurate brand information and better supply chain management.
With over 5,000 members nationwide, GS1 Philippines continues to expand its support for various industries, including 31 companies actively utilizing barcodes in the healthcare supply chain.
