Manila Bulletin
‘Take it or leave it,’ says Sotto on people’s choice of vaccines
Senators are questioning Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque's advice to Filipinos not to be picky about the COVID-19 vaccine brands they will receive.
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon believes Roque's statements might increase public anxiety about the vaccination program.
Senator Risa Hontiveros argued that Filipinos should be allowed to choose their vaccines, stating that public surveys show apprehension about vaccine safety and the Palace's message disadvantages Filipinos.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III also weighed in, suggesting that if people do not like the available vaccines, they should simply not take them.
Sotto believes Roque's remarks were made in 'street language' and meant that people should use whatever is available, but acknowledged that individuals have the right to refuse vaccines.
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Comedian Vice Ganda questioned the government's stance on not allowing Filipinos to be picky about the COVID-19 vaccines they receive.
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Vice President Leni Robredo asserted that Filipinos have the right to choose which COVID-19 vaccine they prefer, emphasizing that health is a right, not a privilege.
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Senate President Vicente Sotto III has rejected President Rodrigo Duterte's offer to procure Pfizer vaccines for senators, stating "Thanks but no thanks."
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House Minority Leader Joseph Stephen Paduano criticized Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque for his insensitive and arrogant remarks about Filipinos not being able to be picky with COVID-19 vaccine brands.
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Vice President Leni Robredo is willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in public to encourage public confidence, a stance she declared as early as December.
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