VP Robredo urges faster COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Vice President Leni Robredo is urging the government to accelerate the COVID-19 vaccination program, stating that the current pace will take years to achieve herd immunity.

Robredo pointed out that if only 30,000 doses are administered weekly, reaching the target of vaccinating 70 to 80 million Filipinos for herd immunity would take an extended period.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque agreed that the vaccination program needs to be sped up but cited limited vaccine supply as a constraint.

Roque also mentioned that allowing health workers to choose their preferred vaccine slowed down the vaccination's phase, as Sinovac was not recommended by the FDA for them.

Deputy Chief Implementer Vince Dizon stated the government needs to vaccinate at least 250,000 to 300,000 individuals daily to vaccinate 50 million within the year.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said around 450,000 people a day have to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity within the year.