Palace asks Lapu-Lapu mayor to withdraw policy vs unvaccinated

Malacañang urged Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan to withdraw a planned policy that would restrict unvaccinated individuals from purchasing essential goods and services.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque stated that such a restriction could prevent unvaccinated individuals from receiving necessary aid and assistance, such as groceries.

Roque acknowledged the intention behind the policy but deemed it premature for the Philippines, suggesting it's only feasible when over 50% of the population is vaccinated, unlike in countries like France and the United States.

Mayor Chan has since recalled the policy which was set to take effect on August 25.

Roque noted that Lapu-Lapu City is already doing a good job with its vaccination program, inoculating 2,000 to 8,200 people daily.

He added that such a restrictive policy is not needed as people in Lapu-Lapu City are willing to be vaccinated.

Roque previously warned Chan against implementing such a policy given the country's insufficient vaccine supply, with 9.3 million Filipinos fully vaccinated as of Tuesday.