Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez, Jr. was ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday to approve documents allowing the private sector to import COVID-19 vaccines.
“I ordered Secretary Galvez to sign any and all documents that would allow the private sector to import at will. Maski magkano, ilan ang gusto nilang ipasok, okay sa akin,” said Duterte during his regular Monday night address.
It was pointed out by the President that a lot of private companies are seeking to procure their own supply of vaccines for their employees for the continued operation of their businesses.
“You know the reason why? So the economy can be opened,” he added.
Private firms are permitted to buy anti-coronavirus vaccines through a tripartite agreement with the government and the manufacturer of the vaccine. Authorities point out that the government needs to cover the indemnity for any possible side effects of the vaccines, which haven’t been cleared for commercial use yet.
