Student groups criticize use of schools as vax sites

An alliance of student councils, the National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP), criticized the government's use of school facilities as COVID-19 vaccination sites.

NUSP stated that this move highlights the perceived "failed" response of the Duterte administration to the pandemic and the long-standing neglect of the healthcare system.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) had previously confirmed an agreement with the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) to coordinate HEIs and LGUs in pandemic response, including the establishment of vaccination centers within campus facilities.

NUSP National President Jandeil Roperos argued that while more vaccination sites appear to be progress, the necessity of using schools reveals deeper systemic issues.

However, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo defended the use of schools as vaccination sites, stating that it saves the government time from building new facilities.

Panelo questioned the NUSP's criticism, asking why schools, which are currently unused due to suspended face-to-face classes, shouldn't be utilized for vaccination efforts.