Gov't starts distribution of face masks for poor Filipinos -Galvez

The distribution of face masks for millions of poor Filipinos has already started, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the chief implementer of the government's response on COVID-19, said Thursday.

"Officially, we have launched the initial distribution of 30 million face masks for the general public as promised by our President," Galvez said at a Palace briefing.

"Ang bibigyan po natin ito ay 'yung tinatawag na mga poorest of the poor, more or less 20 to 30 million po," he added.

On Wednesday, Health Secretary Francisco Duque led the ceremonial distribution of reusable and washable face masks in Barangay San Roque, Antipolo City.

Aside from face masks, the national government has said 20 million Filipinos will be provided with a COVID-19 vaccine for free.

The poorest of the poor will be prioritized as the government commits P20 billion for vaccines at $10 per dose.—AOL, GMA News