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Senate to resume inquiry into COVID-19 vaccine program on Friday
The Philippine Senate will resume its inquiry into the government's COVID-19 immunization program this Friday, January 22, to address lingering questions regarding vaccine pricing and efficacy.
Senator Panfilo Lacson has been tasked by Senate President Vicente Sotto III to prepare a shortlist of resource persons for the upcoming hearing.
This session follows previous hearings where senators questioned officials about their agreements with vaccine manufacturers.
National Task Force Against COVID-19 chief Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that negotiations with Sinovac are ongoing to secure the best possible price for their vaccine.
Concerns have been raised as Senator Sonny Angara's provided list indicated Sinovac's price at P3,629 for two doses, which is higher than other available vaccines.
However, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque later clarified that the cost per dose for Sinovac's vaccine is approximately P650.
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Senator Panfilo Lacson expressed suspicion of an attempt to overprice Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines in the Philippines, noting a significant price difference compared to other countries.
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Senator Risa Hontiveros is calling for Sinovac Biotech to send a representative to a Senate hearing to address concerns about its COVID-19 vaccine.
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Two senators are advocating for another hearing on the Philippines' COVID-19 vaccination rollout due to unresolved issues.
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Malacañang denied claims that the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine costs PHP3,600 per dose, stating the actual price is significantly lower.
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Senators plan to demand the executive branch disclose the prices of COVID-19 vaccines procured through government deals, citing transparency concerns.
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