Palace: WHO approval of Sinovac boosts vaccine confidence

Malacañang welcomed the World Health Organization's (WHO) validation of China's Sinovac-CoronaVac Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use, saying it will boost confidence among those hesitant to receive non-western vaccines.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said WHO joining other institutions in validating the quality, safety, and efficacy of the vaccine is expected to increase public trust.

The government has urged the public to take available vaccines amid a preference for western brands. Sinovac's CoronaVac was approved by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in February and used when the vaccination program officially began in March.