Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 2) — The Department of Interior and Local Government has cautioned local government units and the public against the purchase of fake Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines which have made their way into the global market.
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año issued the advisory on Saturday after the World Health Organization sounded the alarm on a counterfeit COVID-19 vaccine named “BNT162b2,” which claims to be manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech.
Año called on government officials to ensure that they only buy medical products from authorized suppliers.
“While there is no information yet on the presence of the fake vaccines in the country, LGUs should exercise increased diligence as these fake vaccines may be dangerous to the health of those who get inoculated,” Año said.
In a global alert last month, the WHO said it is still conducting laboratory analysis of the contents of the falsified product, which was first discovered in Mexico. It contains the lot number “783201” and indicates an expiry date of August 24.
“WHO requests increased vigilance within the supply chains of countries and regions likely to be affected by these falsified products. Increased vigilance should include hospitals, clinics, health centers, wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies, and any other suppliers of medical products,” the agency had said.
To date, no Pfizer shipment has arrived in the Philippines due to delays caused by negotiation issues regarding indemnification. Earlier this week, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez, Jr. said around 2.3 million doses are expected in the country not later than June. In total, the government is eyeing to obtain up to 40 million doses from the American pharmaceutical firm.
Año also directed the Philippine National Police to help investigate and confiscate the fake vaccines, should there be reports they have entered the local market.
Año urged the public to immediately report any information on the presence or use of the said product in the country to the National Task Force Vaccine Cluster by contacting c19vaccineopcen@gmail.com or +639178237310.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority urged those who may have knowledge about the sale and distribution of fake Pfizer vaccines to immediately contact authorities.
But MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos told CNN Philippines they have yet to receive reports of fake COVID-19 vaccines in Metro Manila.
“Doon po tayo magpabakuna sa sinasabi ng ating batas, which is of course sa ngayon po ay ang gobyerno. Kung maroll-out na ang partnership with the private sector, babantayan natin ‘yan at ililista natin ang mga licensed na mga ka-partners natin,” said Abalos.
[Translation: We should get our vaccines as prescribed under the law, which is of course the government for now. Once the vaccine rollout in partnership with the private sector starts, we will remain vigilant and list our licensed partners for the vaccination.]
