In a compelling and heartfelt address, Mr. Patrick Roquel, founder of GH Nutri Pharma Incorporated and a kidney transplant survivor, shared his inspiring journey and the vital role of Lagundi (Vitex negundo) in both his recovery and the lives of thousands of Filipino farmers and patients. His speech, delivered during a Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-sponsored event, emphasized the importance of herbal medicine and its potential to revolutionize Philippine health care and agriculture.
With key figures from the government and scientific community in attendance—including DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Dr. Jaime Montoya, and National Scientist Dr. Raul Fabella—Roquel’s presentation was not just about business but a mission for life, health, and livelihood.
Starting with a light-hearted farm-themed icebreaker, Roquel urged participants to reflect on the importance of nature in human health. “Sa farm, punong-puno ng oxygen. Kaya kung gusto nyo huminga ng maganda, pumunta tayo sa farm,” he said, drawing a connection between farming and wellness.
Diagnosed with kidney failure and having survived five bouts of COVID-19 post-transplant, Roquel credits Lagundi—an herbal plant with known respiratory benefits—as a crucial part of his healing. “Because of this Lagundi…nabuhay pa tayo until now,” he testified, reinforcing the power of natural remedies backed by science.
Roquel highlighted the Puno sa Gipuhay program, a community-based farming initiative aimed at planting and propagating Lagundi while uplifting indigenous and rural families. “Yung mga babae ng farmers natin dati labandera… ngayon nakaka-one sack of rice a day,” he proudly shared. The program provides a sustainable income for farmers, including Mangyans, Aetas, and out-of-school youth, transforming lives through employment and education.
Founded in 2006, GH Nutri Pharma and its subsidiary Binhi BioPharm have become pioneers in producing high-quality herbal raw materials in the Philippines. Their focus: scientifically validated, FDA-compliant, pharmaceutical-grade herbal powders, especially Lagundi. From stringent farming protocols to mechanized drying systems, the company ensures consistent, safe, and potent products that meet global standards.
GH Nutri Pharma currently supplies some of the country’s largest drugstores and collaborates with both public and private institutions. “We envision to put the health in the hands of the people by being the preferred source of premium grade herbal raw materials,” said Roquel.
According to Roquel, backed by Statista Research data, the Philippine over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals market is forecasted to grow to ₱134 billion by 2029, with Lagundi products alone reaching over ₱1.2 billion in annual sales. “Why let multinationals dominate when we have our own herbal treasures?” he asked.
Roquel drew attention to key growth segments:
Vitamins & Minerals: Forecasted to reach ₱49.6 billion by 2029
Cough & Cold Remedies: Expected to hit ₱22 billion, where Lagundi plays a significant role
Digestive & Analgesic Markets: Both with billions in potential, where other Philippine herbs like tsaang gubat and yerba buena can flourish
Having successfully built a sustainable Lagundi farming ecosystem in Luzon, Roquel is calling for expansion into Visayas and Mindanao. “Kung nagawa namin sa Luzon, bakit hindi sa Visayas at Mindanao?” he challenged, pointing to the role of seminars, community education, and government support in replicating success across the country.
Clinical trials by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and UP Manila support Lagundi’s efficacy in relieving respiratory symptoms. Its incorporation into DOH’s approved herbal medicines list proves its legitimacy as a natural alternative to synthetic drugs.
Roquel ended his presentation on a hopeful note: “With enough support and belief in our own resources, we can elevate Philippine herbal medicine globally by 2030.”
Roquel’s journey—from a post-transplant survivor to an herbal industry leader—is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the untapped potential of Philippine agriculture. As the government and scientific community rally behind local herbal initiatives, Lagundi stands tall not just as a plant, but as a symbol of health, hope, and Filipino ingenuity.
