Duterte asks communist groups to ensure safe vaccine transport

President Rodrigo Duterte urged the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People's Army (NPA), and National Democratic Front (NDF) to ensure the safe and unhindered transport of COVID-19 vaccines, appealing for humanitarian consideration and a chance for the groups to redeem themselves.

He ordered the military and police to keep order during the vaccination drive and utilize police stations and military camps as vaccination sites in the countryside.

Duterte warned government personnel against delaying vaccine transport and roll-out through red tape or corruption, specifically directing the Bureau of Customs (BOC) not to open vaccine containers upon arrival.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III stated that the government is targeting a 30-minute clearance time for COVID-19 vaccines at Customs.

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. assured the President that police escorts would be provided for swift vaccine delivery.

The CPP stated that the NPA would ensure a humanitarian corridor for the safe passage of COVID-19 vaccines in their zones, but insisted that the Philippine Red Cross and other civilian humanitarian agencies should handle the transportation and distribution, not the military.