MANILA - The Japanese government on Thursday provided the Philippines anti-flu drug Avigan tablets as the latter conducts clinical trials for possible COVID-19 treatment.

In a statement posted on its website, the Embassy of Japan in Manila said the tablets, which are delivered as part of its "emergency grant aid to countries severely affected by COVID-19," are intended for 100 patients.

"Japan hopes that this ongoing cooperation with the Philippines would further contribute to the advancement of clinical research to contain the COVID-19 pandemic," it said