DOH clarifies boosters not yet mandatory

The Department of Health (DOH) clarified on Thursday that COVID-19 booster shots are still not mandatory in the Philippines.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire stated that the DOH has not issued any directive making boosters mandatory, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise.

Dr. Jose de Grano, president of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc., supported the DOH's proposal to require a first booster dose for full vaccination status, citing waning immunity from primary vaccine series.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reportedly agreed with the DOH’s recommendation during a meeting on Wednesday to raise public protection against COVID-19 and prepare for face-to-face classes resuming in November.

Marcos emphasized his administration's plan to encourage Filipinos, especially youth, to receive booster shots amid rising infections.