PNP ready for deployment as gov't prepares to vaccinate millions of essential workers, poor Pinoys
Police forces are now ready for both the transport and security of vaccination sites as the national government is expected to start the roll-out of vaccination for millions of essential workers and indigent Filipinos against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar said he had already instructed all concerned police units and offices are closely coordinating with the National Task Force on COVID-19, including the Department of Health, and local government units, for the vaccine rollout in their respective areas.
"We have long prepared for this and our assistance is not only in the transport of vaccines and the security of vaccination sites but also for the manpower, particularly those wo would administer the vaccination," said Eleazar.
Eleazar said the PNP’s Medical Reserve Force is also ready for deployment to help speed up the inoculation process in some localities that may require assistance.
"Included in those ready for deployment are our Medical Reserve Force. We also readied our vehicles, speed boats and even helicopters to assist in the vaccination roll-out," said Eleazar.
Eleazar said there are more than 180 fast boats and four helicopters from the PNP which could be used for the transportation of the vaccines.
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año ordered the deployment of 35,415 police personnel to assist in the transportation of vaccines nationwide and an additional 13,840 policemen to help enforce minimum public health safety protocols and secure the different vaccination sites nationwide.
The PNP Chief assured that police personnel who will be deployed will be provided protective gear, vitamins and supplements so they would have protection against COVID-19.