Spox defends Duterte's COVID-19 remarks

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque defended President Rodrigo Duterte against claims that he downplayed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Duterte had stated, "I will just say to my countrymen that do not despair. Kaya natin ito Covid na ito. Maliit na bagay ito sa buhay natin. Marami tayong dinaanan mas ano, mas grabe, mas mahirap, mas magluluha kayo."

Roque clarified that the President was not minimizing the people's suffering but was expressing confidence in their ability to overcome the crisis.

He further explained that Duterte's remarks meant the current situation is temporary and will eventually pass, especially with the anticipated arrival of more vaccines.

The nation's vaccination program, which began on March 1, has been hampered by a limited supply of vaccines, totaling only 1.12 million doses, insufficient for the two-dose requirement of 1.7 million health workers.