Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 17) — Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez on Thursday urged the Asian Development Bank to create a technical working group with the World Health Organization, the World Bank, and other multilateral bodies on candidate coronavirus vaccines to ensure developing countries’ access to these potentially life-saving products.
The task force could help package financial assistance to help member-countries of the ADB provide vaccines to their poorest and vulnerable populations, Dominguez said in a symposium hosted by the ADB and WHO.
It could also establish an information portal containing updates on COVID-19 vaccine development as well as provide advice on procurement and crafting contracts with manufacturers.
“We encourage the Asian Development Bank to take on a lead role in ensuring accessibility of these vaccines to those who need it the most,” Dominguez said.
“A coordinated approach to the procurement of vaccines and mobilization of financing for this purpose, will greatly help developing countries restore the vitality of their economies,” he added.
The World Health Organization earlier reported that around 180 vaccines against coronavirus are being developed.
The WHO is expected to decide next month which among the 34 vaccine candidates in Phase 3 clinical studies will be tested for safety in its Solidarity trials.
The Philippines is currently in talks with several vaccine developers through bilateral agreements.
