Duterte thanks Biden for vaccine donation during ASEAN-US summit

President Rodrigo Duterte conveyed his gratitude to US President Joe Biden for the donation of COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines during a virtual ASEAN-US summit.

Duterte expressed appreciation for the US's vaccine offer to the region, emphasizing the need for strengthened global cooperation to ensure universal access to vaccines and medicines.

The US has delivered over 24 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the Philippines through the COVAX facility.

The President also highlighted the importance of continuous political dialogue, economic engagement, and socio-cultural ties to bolster the ASEAN-US Strategic Partnership.

Furthermore, Duterte stressed the significance of ASEAN Centrality while acknowledging the US commitment to collaboration, particularly in maritime security.