By Deighton Acuin

PHOTO: PTV News

The government’s coronavirus vaccination program is not delayed and the authorities were “simply” ensuring that the processes are complied with and aligned with the negotiations, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said Saturday.

Go told critics that pointing fingers “do not help” in addressing the raging COVID-19 pandemic.

He also said despite limited vaccine supplies, the country “has so far managed to secure ample amount of doses to be used for our people.”

“There is no delay in our vaccine rollout. We are simply complying with the necessary processes, aligned with the agreed schedule, as negotiated with our international partners,” Go, who also serves as the Senate Health Committee Chairperson, said in a statement.

“Taliwas ito sa mga haka-haka ng iilang grupo na nais lamang siraan ang gobyerno at magkalat ng maling impormasyon,” Go added.

The Senator also cited the announcement made by Vaccine Czar Carlito Galvez Jr. that a batch containing 1.4 million additional vaccine doses developed by China-based Sinovac Biotech is expected to be delivered next week.

Of the amount, 400,000 were additional donations from the Chinese government, while one million were purchased by the Philippines.

Go is also happy with the delivery of Sputnik V vaccines developed by Russia’s Gamaleya Institute after its emergency use authorization issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

He also reiterated his appeal to get vaccinated and keep complying with minimum health protocols in a bid to stem the spread of COVID-19.

“We also expect anytime soon the arrival of 979,200 AstraZeneca doses, in addition to 525,600 earlier received through the COVAX Facility. The steady supply of vaccines will provide us with more than 3.5 million doses enough to inoculate our 1.7 million healthcare workers towards the second quarter of 2021,” he said.

“Team Philippines is and will remain focused on our goal of achieving herd immunity and lead our people towards full recovery,” the lawmaker added.


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