Duterte questions vaccine indemnity clause

President Rodrigo Duterte questioned the indemnity clause in vaccine procurement contracts, stating the government cannot grant vaccine manufacturers "immune status" and be freed of all liability.

Duterte believes it is unacceptable for manufacturers to want the private sector to purchase vaccines while the government assumes liability.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque clarified that the government would assume liability for adverse side effects from vaccine use except for claims arising from willful misconduct or gross negligence, as stated in Republic Act No. 11525.

Roque explained that this exemption from blanket immunity was based on the law, as the government would not be liable for claims due to willful neglect and gross negligence.

Duterte had previously signed a measure creating a P500-million indemnification fund for patients who would get sick from coronavirus vaccines.

Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. explained that under the current tripartite agreement, the government shoulders liability for adverse effects because vaccines are procured under emergency use authorization.

Separately, China's donation of 400,000 more vials of CoronaVac is set to arrive on March 24.