As the government ramps up the inoculation drive as defense against the coronavirus spread, President Duterte has appealed to local government officials to make sure people lining up for vaccination are safe and protected.
The President issued the appeal particularly to the local officials supervising the areas under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) following reports of overcrowding in some vaccination sites that put the people at risk of infection.
"I call on the LGUs in ECQ areas to ensure the safety and security of those getting their vaccinations," Duterte said during a televised address Monday, August 9.
Duterte earlier advised people who have not been vaccinated, especially the elderly, to stay home until their vaccination schedule has arrived. He offered the "suggestion" as he belied allegations blaming the government for the chaos that occurred in some vaccination centers.
Thousands people flocked to a number of vaccination hubs on the eve of the implementation of August 6 lockdown in the capital region amid fears they won't supposedly be allowed to go outside and get aid from government.
The President, meantime, welcomed the rising number of people getting vaccinated against the coronavirus.
"I am pleased to report that on Thursday, August 5, we recorded the highest number of vaccines administered in a day at more than 710 vaccines. Wow. So the total number of fully vaccinated Filipinos has reached 11.2 million. While those who received at least one dose has reached 13 million on August 18. This puts the total of more than 24 million Filipinos vaccinated nationwide," he said.
He also said the country's vaccine supply continued to increase with the recent deliveries from foreign suppliers. "I hope that would go a long way in our fight against COVID-19," he said.