House strips direct buying powers for LGUs in vaccine purchase bill

On Wednesday, February 17, the House removed provisions from HB No. 8648 that would have allowed local government units (LGUs) to directly purchase coronavirus vaccines.

The committee report approved by the appropriations panel retains the current policy requiring LGUs to sign tripartite deals with the national government and vaccine manufacturers for reservations of supplies.

On Monday, February 15, the House Committee on Ways and Means approved tax exemptions in HB No. 8648, which aims to expedite vaccine procurement by LGUs without public bidding.

The bill proposes exempting vaccines from customs duties, VAT, excise taxes, and other fees provided they are used only for residents and constituents of the respective LGU.