MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos visited vaccination sites in some parts of Metro Manila to ensure an orderly process amid the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine. Photo from MMDA
MANILA, Philippines — To ensure an orderly conduct of vaccination to avoid superspreader events, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos inspected a number of COVID-19 vaccination sites in Metro Manila on Friday, the start of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in the capital region.
Abalos visited the SM Southmall Las Piñas City, Ayala Malls Southmall in Muntinlupa City, and SM City BF Parañaque.
“Our overall assessment on the vaccination process on the said areas is very orderly and very efficient. We have our target to protect Filipinos from the deadly coronavirus disease thru inoculation,” the chair observed.
The inspection was conducted a day after surges in individuals wanting to get a vaccine shot was reported in the cities of Manila and Las Piñas, which observers say were possible superspreader events.
Based on the investigation, individuals flocked to vaccination sites after hearing that unvaccinated persons are not qualified for cash assistance.
Abalos called on the public to refrain from believing in false news amid the health crisis.
“This is a critical phase right now. I’m appealing to everyone. Kaya natin ito basta walang fake news at walang maniniwala sa fake news (We can do this as long as there is no fake news and no one will believe in fake news),” Abalos said.
Abalos added that local government units in Metro Manila are expected to administer 250,000 COVID-19 vaccines per day during the two-week ECQ.