The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public against people who are selling coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccines online.
In an advisory, the FDA said this kind of act is a "scam" and usually targets overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
"The public is advised that this is a scam which uses online platforms and social media to attract buyers specially those who have preference on the brand of vaccines specifically our countrymen who work abroad (OFWs)," the FDA said.
"The FDA reiterates its call on the general public specially the OFWs, to remain vigilant about these scams. Currently, all COVID-19 vaccines available in the Philippines are under Emergency Use Authorization, these are given by the Philippine government at no cost or free of charge," it added.
The FDA said that these scammers offer a promo deal such as "buy 2 take 1 deal."
"Once you place your order to the online selling platform, the seller will send a chat message and will give his private contact numbers usually Viber, WeChat or WhatsApp. Payment will be requested to be settled thru Gcash or bank transfer prior arrangement of delivery," the FDA said.
"After the payment, another person/number will send a message asking for courier or delivery fee. When the delivery fee has been paid, another person will send a message asking for the payment of insurance fee. No vaccine product will be delivered even when all payments have been settled," it added.
The FDA warned that selling COVID-19 vaccines are prohibited at this point.
"The marketing and sale of any COVID-19 vaccine in the country is currently prohibited and punishable by law," the agency said.
"As of today, the Philippine government assures the public that there are no counterfeit COVID-19 Vaccines available in the country. All Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and Local Government Unit (LGUs) are requested to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are not sold or made available in the market or areas of jurisdiction." it added.
It called on the public to report to the FDA any sale or distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.