DOH, FDA warn vs illegal COVID-19 vaccine sales

Government agencies, including the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are warning the public against the unauthorized selling of COVID-19 vaccines.

FDA Director-General Rolando Enrique Domingo clarified that all vaccines used in public and private hospitals come from the DOH and cannot be sold, nor can patients be charged for them.

These statements were made amidst reports of institutions offering Sinovac's COVID-19 vaccine with a price tag.

Domingo emphasized that all vaccines must be given free of charge, stating there is no commercial sale of vaccines.

He further explained that the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) granted to COVID-19 vaccines is not a marketing authorization or a Certificate of Product Registration, and therefore, no COVID-19 vaccine can be sold commercially.

Individuals and organizations involved in the unlawful sale, purchase, and administration of COVID-19 vaccines will face penalties, including imprisonment and fines.