DOH, FDA told: Make a 'firm stand' on ivermectin use Apr 29, 2021 9:48 PM PHT The Quezon City government on Thursday, April 29, called on the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a "firm stand" on the use and distribution of the experimental drug ivermectin as COVID-19 treatment. This comes after the anti-parasitic drug was distributed Thursday to residents of Barangay Old Balara, led by House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta and Anakalusugan Party-list Representative Mike Defensor. Quezon City health department officer-in-charge Esperanza Arias said that a firm position from the health regulatory agencies would "set the record straight regarding the legality and efficacy of the drug, including its distribution to the general public."