Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 20) — Three medical experts sent by the Israeli government arrived in Manila on Sunday afternoon to help strengthen the Philippines’ approach in combating COVID-19.
The members of the team are Dr. Avraham Ben-Zaken, Dr. Adam Segal, and Dr. Dafna Segol.
“On behalf of the Philippine government, I wish to thank the Israeli government for sending this mission and the members of the medical team for their generosity in taking part in this mission to share their expertise in ensuring the success in combating coronavirus and the vaccination program in the Philippines,” Philippine Ambassador to Israel Macairog Alberto said in a statement.
In an earlier statement, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez, Jr. said the Philippine government is looking to adopt Israel’s ways in boosting its coronavirus vaccine program.
READ: Lessons from Israel’s COVID-19 pandemic response
Philippine officials, led by Galvez, welcomed the Israeli medical team at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Israel is considered a world leader in COVID-19 vaccination as more than half of its population has already been vaccinated.
RELATED: Over 30,000 Filipinos given free COVID-19 shots in Israel
During his short speech, Galvez said the assistance of Israel in improving the country’s COVID-19 response will help the Philippines achieve herd immunity within 2021.
“We are very eager to learn from you, especially the techniques you have successfully employed in your country on your vaccine program,” Galvez said.
