Task force vs. COVID-19 probes illicit selling of vaccines

The National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19 said Saturday it is now investigating the reported illicit selling of anti-COVID-19 vaccines.

In a statement, the NTF said it is “deeply concerned” with reports it has received regarding the illegal selling of vaccines against the deadly coronavirus.

“We are investigating this matter,” it said.

Some screenshots of the supposed "under the table" selling of COVID-19 vaccines have gone viral on social media.

The messages showed that some individuals were also claiming they could obtain vaccination slots in some local government units for P8,000 to P12,000.

The cities of Mandaluyong and San Juan were mentioned in the messages.

The Philippine National Police was tasked to investigate the alleged "under the table" selling of COVID-19 vaccines.

“We would like to remind everyone that anti-COVID vaccines are FREE for all qualified citizens. They are not for sale. Thus, the selling of vaccines or of the priority slots is deemed illegal and punishable by law,” the NTF said.

“All the vaccines procured by the national government and are currently being administered have only been given Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). They are not for commercial distribution. Likewise, the priority slots are strictly intended for the A1, A2 and A3 priority groups only,” it said.

In a statement, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora branded this as a scam.

Mandaluyong City Mayor Menchie Abalos also emphasized that vaccines from the local government are free.

“We would therefore like to commend local chief executives who took swift actions and have taken the necessary steps to address this still unvalidated issue,” the NTF said.

“They include Mandaluyong City Mayor Menchie Abalos who has asked the National Bureau of Investigation’s cybercrime division to conduct a thorough investigation of the matter. She also called on her people not to patronize this illegitimate activity,” it said.

The NTF also lauded Zamora for branding the modus operandi as a scam and reaching out to those who have been victimized by the unlawful scheme.

“It is our hope that these local leaders will serve as an example to their counterparts throughout the country, and encourage them to take decisive action when the health and welfare of their constituents are at stake,” the NTF said.

“And for those who are engaged in the unauthorized sale of anti-COVID vaccines, we ask you to stop what you are doing. The long arm of the law will soon catch up on you,” it said.

The NTF said it will continue to monitor developments on the investigation being carried out. We assure the public that individuals who are involved in this prohibited scheme will be penalized.

“To reiterate, our vaccines are free and those who will commit fraud and illegal acts of selling and providing priorities and privileged access for financial gains will be investigated and punished,” it said. -MDM, GMA News