COVID-19 vaccines developed by China’s Sinovac Biotech is expected to arrive in the Philippines this Sunday, February 28, Malacañang said.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque in a press briefing confirmed that some 600,000 doses of CoronaVac promised by the vaccine manufacturer, initially scheduled to arrive on February 23, will now be available in three days.
“Tatlong tulog na lang po, parating na ang bakuna, inaasahang itong darating na Linggo, ang Sinovac. Kaya po excited na tayong lahat,” he said.
This confirmation was echoed by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, citing in his official statement that both countries have been working hard to deliver the vaccines as soon as possible. The envoy also noted that the coordination between China and Philippines is proof of the two nations’ deep friendship.
“The donation of vaccines is another testament to the solidarity as well as profound friendship and partnership between our two peoples and two countries.”
Although the donated vaccines are expected tp arrive in the next few days, the Department of Health and the National Task Force Against COVID-19 clarified that the rollout of Sinovac vaccines will not immediately start on March 1. The recommendation of medical experts will still be heeded by the authorities before starting the vaccination.
