Start security preparations for COVID-19 vaccination of minors aged 12-17, Eleazar orders PNP

Philippine National Police chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar on Thursday directed all units to prepare for security ahead of the vaccination against COVID-19 of all minors aged 12-17 next week.

In a statement, Eleazar gave assurance that the PNP will help the government’s vaccination drive for the minors.

“I am ordering all police units to start security preparations for the expected vaccination of all minors which could begin next week,” he said.

“Police commanders nationwide should get in touch with their LGUs to be able to effectively craft security plans with the aim of enforcing minimum public health standards and ensuring the safety of minors and their parents,” he added.

Eleazar said PNP assets like the Medical Reserve Force are  ready to assist.

“The Medical Reserve Force is on standby and is ready for deployment to help facilitate the inoculation process should our LGUs require assistance in their local vaccination programs,” he said.

On Wednesday, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said the vaccination of all minors aged 12 to 17 would start as early as November 3. The government targets vaccinating 12.7 million people who belong to the age group.

The Philippines started its vaccination of minors with comorbidities in selected hospitals in Metro Manila under the Department of Health on October 15. Its expansion covers local government-based hospitals in the region. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News