Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 30) — The Philippines will buy at least 60 million doses of coronavirus vaccine once it’s available, National Task Force for COVID-19 Chief Implementer Carlito Galvez said on Thursday.
He said President Rodrigo Duterte has been in touch with several leaders and embassies so the Philippines can be among the first countries to have access to a COVID-19 vaccine once it is developed.
“(Ang instruction) ito ay maging available at least sa 60 million people sa ating bansa. We are ready to get it because of the President’s diplomatic efforts,” he said in a media briefing.
The President has personally appealed to China to prioritize the Philippines, a plea that was warmly received by the Chinese government.
RELATED: China vows to prioritize PH for coronavirus vaccines
While the world awaits a vaccine, Galvez said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has been in contact with pharmacies to receive discounts on antiviral drug Avigan, which is being used in Japan to treat COVID-19. He added DOH is also working to improve the medical supply chain so the government can buy medicine straight from the suppliers.
