PH begins COVID-19 vaccination for 12-17 year olds

The Philippines commenced its COVID-19 vaccination program for minors aged 12 to 17 on November 3, with a nationwide rollout beginning November 5.

A ceremonial vaccination was held in Parañaque City, attended by vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. and other government officials.

Of the 12.7 million children aged 12 to 17, 1.2 million have comorbidities and were prioritized for vaccination.

A total of 40,419 minors with comorbidities had already been vaccinated since the campaign started on October 15.

Only Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are authorized for pediatric vaccinations in the Philippines.

The government aims to vaccinate 80% of minors aged 12 to 17 by December.

The Department of Health (DOH) clarified that medical certificates are not required for the general pediatric vaccination of minors aged 12 to 17, though proof of filiation or guardianship and valid IDs are necessary.

Minors with comorbidities, however, still require medical certification from their doctors to be vaccinated.

The DOH is also considering vaccinating children aged 5 to 11 by 2022, pending expert recommendations and vaccine availability.