Facade of the DOH main office in Manila. INQUIRER.net file photo
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday said it is open to alternative ways concerning the COVID-19 vaccination program after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. hesitates to extend the state of calamity beyond the end of the year.
A calamity declaration allows the government to use quick response funds and control the prices of essential goods. But in the case of the new coronavirus pandemic, the declaration is also the basis of the government’s vaccination program.
“[The] DOH is open to alternatives that can ensure an undisrupted vaccination program,” the agency said in a statement.
“If the extension will not be approved, we can still continue with the COVID-19 vaccination program,” the department also said, pointing out that the government could still use existing doses considering their validity is hinged on their Emergency Use Authorizations.
The DOH said that the government is looking into granting a special authority to purchase vaccines without a state of calamity.
However, the DOH pointed out that the expiration of the state of calamity could still have adverse effects on the government’s vaccination program.
“Also, it is expected that the number of vaccinators will decrease as other cadres such as pharmacists may no longer be tapped, and willingness to vaccinate may decrease as immunity from liability is not guaranteed,” the agency stressed.
The DOH also said they had submitted their recommendations to Marcos and are continuously coordinating with the Office of the President.
In March 2020, former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 922, which declared a state of public health emergency in the country due to the new coronavirus outbreak.
According to the proclamation, the state of public health emergency could “remain in force and effect until lifted or withdrawn by the President.”
Duterte had also signed a separate proclamation declaring a state of calamity in the Philippines due to COVID-19.