Bivalent vaccines from COVAX being discussed —Herbosa

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Wednesday said negotiations are ongoing for around two million COVID-19 bivalent vaccines.

In an interview with reporters at the launch of bivalent vaccination, Herbosa was asked how many more vaccines would arrive for the country.

"Mayroon akong nadidinig na two million in negotiation, two million doses. I cannot tell you the date yet, but we're waiting for that. COVAX will help us get that two million," Herbosa told reporters.

(I've heard about the two million doses that are still in negotiation. I cannot tell you the date yet, but we're waiting for that. COVAX will help us get that two million.)

Herbosa admitted that the more than 390,000 donated bivalent vaccines from Lithuania are not enough. These vaccines were already distributed to other regions and those prioritized are healthcare workers and senior citizens.

"Definitely kulang no, we're actually happy na mayroong dumating. If you remember, OIC Usec. [Maria Rosario] Vergeire was saying dadating earlier and then naantala, napunta sa ibang bansa. Tapos buti na lang ang Lithuania binigyan tayo," Herbosa said.

(Definitely, it's not enough, we're actually happy that they arrived. If you remember, OIC Usec. Vergeire was saying it will come at an earlier time and then it was delayed. It was brought to other countries, then Lithuania donated.)

The Department of Health has said bivalent vaccines provide protection against the original COVID-19 strain, SARS-CoV-2, and Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5.

Official launch

The DOH officially launched on Wednesday the bivalent COVID-19 vaccination in the country, presided by Herbosa, who was also the first recipient in the National Capital Region.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. graced the launch which was held at the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City. 

During the event, Marcos renewed his call for Filipinos who remain unprotected against COVID-19 to get vaccinated.

"I thus appeal to everyone, especially those who have yet to receive their primary series of vaccinations, to get vaccinated against COVID-19. This is not for your own good alone but also for the protection of your families and the general public," said Marcos in his speech. 

Marcos also expressed gratitude to the government of Lithuania for its donation of more than 390,000 bivalent vaccines.

"I am hopeful that we will further deepen our cooperation in such areas, both our great nations, as well as sustain this bond of friendship that we have strengthened now," Marcos said.

"Rest assured that this government under this administration treasures that special relationship and your act of generosity today will certainly not go unnoticed or ever be forgotten," he added. —VAL, GMA Integrated News