Velasco files bill for LGUs to directly buy COVID-19 vaccines

House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco has filed House Bill 8648, which seeks to allow local government units (LGUs) to directly purchase COVID-19 vaccines from manufacturers without public bidding.

The bill aims to expedite vaccine procurement and administration during the pandemic.

On February 11, the House committee on appropriations approved in principle the bills allowing LGUs to buy coronavirus vaccines straight from manufacturers.

Metro Manila Council Chairman Edwin Olivarez expressed concern that the distribution of vaccines may not be balanced if LGUs can negotiate directly with manufacturers.