Robredo calls Duterte unpresidential over Sinovac comments

Vice President Leni Robredo stated that President Rodrigo Duterte sounded unpresidential and "sobrang pikon" (too sensitive) when he criticized her suggestions regarding the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque countered that Duterte's reaction was because Robredo is "always wrong."

Robredo found Duterte's statement unbecoming of a president, asserting that people should be allowed to make suggestions freely.

Duterte had previously accused Robredo of implying his administration disregarded regulatory processes and told her "Mamatay ka na" (you will die).

Duterte also urged Robredo to "go shop for vaccines" abroad and offered to fund her purchases.

Robredo had previously noted that Sinovac had not yet secured a recommendation from the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC), whose reviews are recommendatory and do not second-guess the FDA.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III confirmed on Tuesday that Sinovac was undergoing HTAC review.