Donated vaccines from Japan welcomed by President Duterte
MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte personally welcome the arrival of over a million doses of AstraZenica vaccines a few minutes past 9:00 P.M. at the Villamor Air Base.
President Duterte was accompanied by Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III, Vaccine Czar Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr. Japanese Embassy’s Economic Minister Masahiro Nakata, among others.
“Let me thank the Government of Japan and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga for working with the Philippine Government in ensuring equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. These more than one million doses of Astra-Zeneca vaccine will surely go a long way in our quest for herd immunity,” he said.
He credited Japan for being a “strong partner” in various development programs and the cooperation between the two governments in the battle against the pandemic is “truly an indication of the deep friendship between our two countries.”
The Chief Executive said the government has prioritized the safety and quality of all vaccines up for distribution across the archipelago. He added Philippine health authorities are coordinating with their international counterparts in continuing studies on vaccine safety and efficacy.
He also acknowledged Japan’s provision of cold chain transport and ancillaries.
President Duterte called on the general public to get inoculated and help prevent the further spread of the virus. (Melo M. Acuña)
President Rodrigo Duterte (left photo) and Japanese Embassy's Economic Minister Masahiro Nakata hold AstraZeneca vials during the welcome ceremonies last night. Right photo shows Minister Nakatam President Duterte, Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III and Vaccine Czar Carlito Galvez presenting the AstraZeneca vials to the general public. (PCOO Photos)
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