Robredo: PH must fight COVID-19 not just wait for vaccines

Vice President Leni Robredo emphasized that the Philippines must proactively combat the spread of COVID-19 rather than solely relying on the eventual arrival of foreign-developed vaccines.

Robredo stated that the pandemic cannot be stopped by just waiting for a vaccine and that its spread must be contained as soon as possible.

Her statement comes after President Duterte's request for priority access to a potential vaccine from China, a country that has since pledged to prioritize the Philippines in vaccine distribution.

Duterte's fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) drew criticism for the absence of a COVID-19 pandemic masterplan.

In contrast to Duterte's SONA, Robredo presented a comprehensive list of suggestions on how the government can improve its fight against COVID-19.

She stressed the importance of compiling accurate data as the foundation for informed decision-making in addressing the pandemic.

Robredo advocated for prioritizing mass testing, contact tracing, and providing support to communities and hospitals based on reliable data.

She also urged for the swift release of COVID-19 tests as part of a proactive strategy to curb the rising number of cases in the country.