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Villar upbeat on reopening of economy after COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Philippines | National

Villar upbeat on reopening of economy after COVID-19 vaccine rollout

By Vanne Elaine Terrazola

Senator Cynthia Villar said on Tuesday that she is happy that the Philippines has finally begun the inoculations against the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as she said that it would further open up economic activities in the country.

Senator Cynthia Villar

"I am happy that we finally have the vaccines here in the Philippines to stop the spread of the virus," Villar said in a statement issued on Tuesday, March 2.

The availability of the vaccine, she said, "will have a positive impact on our lives as we can slowly go back go our jobs, promote livelihood opportunities, open up our industries and the economy and navigate a new 'normal life'."

The senator added that Filipinos, especially health frontliners, would finally be protected from the deadly infection.

"The vaccine connotes hope and a much better future for Filipinos," Villar said.

The government started on March 1, its vaccination program among health workers in government hospitals as well as health personnel in the police and military.

At least 756 health frontline health workers received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Sinovac, according to authorities.

The Department of Health said at least 20 people experienced minor reactions to the vaccines.

Still, Villar reminded the public not to be complacent despite the vaccine rollout.

"Do not let your guard down," she said, citing compliance to health protocols such as the wearing of face masks and face shield, as well the regular hand washing in physical distancing.

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