Duterte favors gov't deal for China vaccine

President Rodrigo Duterte prefers a government-to-government transaction for acquiring COVID-19 vaccines from China, believing it would minimize corruption compared to dealing with private businessmen.

Duterte stated that the Philippines is willing to pay for the vaccines and hopes for a direct transaction between governments.

He expressed confidence in Chinese expertise and knowledge regarding vaccine development.

The administration initially allocated P2.5 billion for vaccine procurement, but the Department of Health indicated a need for at least P10.5 billion more.

Duterte had a meeting with the Chinese ambassador, who confirmed the availability of vaccines and discussed distribution and transaction modalities.

Currently, only China's Sinovac vaccine has passed the review of the Philippines' Vaccine Experts Panel.