DOJ probes unregistered COVID-19 vaccine distribution

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to probe the unauthorized distribution and administration of unregistered anti-COVID-19 vaccines.

This directive follows reports that some government officials and soldiers, including those in the Presidential Security Group (PSG), received COVID-19 vaccines not yet approved by the FDA.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed some PSG members were vaccinated, disclosing the vaccines were 'smuggled' into the country.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff General Gilbert Gapay has also ordered a separate thorough investigation on the PSG's unauthorized vaccination.

PSG commander Brigadier General Jesus Durante stated his unit acquired the vaccine for free and defended the inoculation, citing the need to ensure the President's security detail is not a threat to his health.

President Rodrigo Duterte revealed on Saturday that some military members had received a COVID-19 vaccine from Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinopharm.

The investigation aims to determine possible violations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Act, the Consumer Act, and the Medical Practice Act.