BACOLOD CITY—The city has made an initial payment of P31 million to AstraZeneca for 650,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines.
“The initial payment practically consummates our contract for these critical vaccine supplies,” said Mayor Evelio Leonardia.
“We wanted to close the agreement as early as we could and that is why we made the payment ahead of the Feb. 24 deadline,” he said.
He said the initial payment would ensure the delivery of the vaccines starting in the third quarter. “This is a step forward for our consolidated vaccine program,” Leonardia said.
Acting City Treasurer Arlene Memoria said the city deposited P31,219,500 with AstraZeneca on Monday (Feb. 22) which represents 20 percent of the total cost of 650,000 doses.
President Rodrigo Duterte on Feb. 18 signed Memorandum No. 51 granting authority to local governments to advance payments in excess of the 15 percent limit for coronavirus vaccines.