Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 9) — The Communist Party of the Philippines on Tuesday vowed rebels will not hamper the movement of COVID-19 vaccines following President Rodrigo Duterte’s plea.
“It is a matter of principle for the NPA to respect all humanitarian undertakings that benefit the masses. Thus, the NPA will ensure that transportation of COVID-19 vaccines will be provided a humanitarian corridor for safe and unimpeded passage in guerrilla base and zones,” it said in a statement, referring to the New People’s Army, the party’s armed wing.
Duterte on Monday asked the rebels to allow COVID-19 vaccines to be transported “freely and safely” in far-flung areas once they become available, urging them to “kindly observe the rules of humanity.” He said there have been reports of guerrillas disrupting the transport of government aid in rural areas.
The CPP-NPA asked the government to avoid using military vehicles, saying transportation and distribution should be handled by the Philippine Red Cross or other civilian humanitarian agencies. It added that transportation that will be used must be clearly marked with a red cross over white background to avoid being mistaken as a military vehicle.
“We strongly suggest that COVID-19 vaccines not be transported in AFP military vehicles, especially those which are not properly marked and carrying armed soldiers… Using AFP to transport and vaccines will not encourage people to be vaccinated,” it said.
The country’s first batch of coronavirus vaccines are expected to be shipped next week. The Philippines is expecting to have its initial rollout of coronavirus vaccines within the first quarter of the year and mass vaccination in the third quarter of 2021.
