President Duterte appealed to the public anew to do their part in defeating the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic by getting vaccinated as more vaccines arrive in the country Monday evening, November 8.

Duterte made the statement as he welcomed the arrival of government-procured 2.8 million doses of Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines in Pasay City on Monday evening.

In his speech, the President assured the public that his administration is committed to securing safe and effective vaccines for all Filipinos.

However, he encouraged the public to get vaccinated in order for the country to reach its vaccination target.

"I appeal to all our kababayans to cooperate and do their part to help overcome this pandemic. The government cannot do this alone and we need your active participation by getting vaccinated and strictly following the minimum health standards," he said.

Meanwhile, the President thanked the Russian government for its continued supply of COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines.

"The deliveries affirm Russia’s commitment to achieving local vaccine equity and improving vaccine accessibility to countries especially the Philippines," Duterte said.

"I deeply appreciate Russia’s efforts in fostering cooperation in various areas including the fight against COVID-19," he added.

According to the President, the recent arrival of COVID-19 vaccines gave the Philippines a reason to be thankful for the strong support of friends from the international community in overcoming the pandemic.

"Goodwill initiatives such as this vaccine donation and others demonstrate the strong ties and friendship between Russia and the Philippines," he said.

Duterte likewise acknowledged the strong efforts of the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19, and other institutional partners for ensuring a steady supply of vaccines in this country.

"Amidst the threat of variants, you attended to prompt and safe, and effective delivery, distribution, administration of the vaccines across the country. Let us work together to put an end to this disease and its harmful effects on our people and the economy for nearly two years now," he said.