DOJ orders NBI probe on alleged illegal vaccine sales

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to submit initial findings on the probe into alleged illegal sales of COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination slots within 10 days.

DOJ Secretary Menardo Guevarra issued Department Order No. 120, directing the NBI to formally start the investigation and report its progress periodically.

The investigation was prompted by a report from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benjamin "Benhur" D. Abalos Jr.

The NBI is investigating the reported illegal sales with a 50-man team, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) is conducting a separate probe.

Initial PNP findings identified at least one person offering vaccines for P12,000 to P15,500 through a social media messaging app.

All COVID-19 vaccines currently have emergency use authorization and cannot be sold commercially.

Those involved could face charges such as estafa, direct bribery, and violations of the Bayanihan law.

Local governments of San Juan, Parañaque, and Mandaluyong are also conducting investigations in coordination with law enforcers, while Manila and Taguig condemned the alleged sale and vowed to pursue perpetrators.