Philippines may possibly forge a deal with AstraZeneca this month
MANILA – The Philippines will likely sign a deal with the United Kingdom’s Astra Zeneca before month’s end for the supply of COVID-19 vaccine as soon as the British government issues a health regulatory authorization,
In his report to President Rodrigo Duterte, Secretary Carlito Galvez, the country’s vaccine czar, Chief Implementer of the National Policy Against COVID-19 and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, he said the government and AstraZeneca may sign an agreement either on December 28 or 29 fpr 20 million and 10 million doses for local government units (LGUs) and the private sector.
This will take places as one as the British Minister of Health Regulatory Authorization has been approved.
AstraZeneca has limited its price to only five dollars or more or less P500 for two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for an individual.
In a statement from the Office of the President, it was learned the government is also negotiating with Serum Institute of India for the supply of the vaccine. Under a tie up with the United States’ Noravax Inc., the vaccines will be manufactured in India.
The India-based company, promised to deliver 30 million doses will adhere with Republic Act 9184 and will not ask for cash advance, giving the government more flexibility, according to Secretary Galvez.
It will be recalled President Duterte assured the general public the government has the money for vaccine procurement.
President Duterte said Budget and Management Secretary Wendel Avisado and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez assured him there’s enough money for the vaccines. (Melo M. Acuña)

Secretary Carlito Galvez (PNA Photo)
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