The proposal to provide “vaccine pass” to inoculated individuals entering indoor establishments was snubbed by the Department of Health on Friday.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire emphasized that there is still not enough evidence to prove that coronavirus vaccines can block transmission and provide immunity.
She pointed out that the only assurance or benefit that we derive from the vaccines is reducing severe infections and hospitalizations, and it is still uncertain whether or not it will prevent infections.
“Ang pinaka-assurance o benepisyo na nakukuha natin sa vaccines is reducing severe infections and hospitalizations. But as to preventing mild to moderate infections, hindi pa rin po tayo nagbibigay ng ganyang assurance sa ating mga kababayan.”
“Even if you are fully vaccinated… kailangan pa rin po natin magpatupad ng minimum health protocols at ito pong sinasabing vaccine pass ay hindi pa rin po mairerekomenda ng Kagawaran ng Kalusugan,” she added.
Beginning May 15, indoor dining will resume at 20% seating capacity when Metro Manila and neighboring provinces return to the less strict general community quarantine (GCQ) status, with heightened restrictions.
