Over 1.1 million doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine donated by Japan arrived in the Philippines on Thursday evening (July 8).
The plane carrying the 1,124,100 AstraZeneca doses landed at Villamor Airbase at around 9:00 p.m where President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the turnover ceremony.
In his speech, President Duterte thanked Japan’s Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide for working with the Philippines to “[ensure] equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.” He said the vaccines will “go a long way” toward helping the country achieve its goal of herd immunity.
“Our cooperation in fighting the pandemic is truly an indication of the deep friendship between our two countries,” he said.
The President also assured the public that the government “remains committed” to acquiring a sufficient supply of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. He urged the Filipinos to get vaccinated and follow the minimum health standards, even when fully vaccinated.
Embassy of Japan Economic Minister Masahiro Nakata guaranteed the continuous cooperation of Japan with the Philippines in responding against the pandemic.
Speaking at the arrival of the vaccines, he said “Japan has ensured to provide COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines. This initiative is a clear testament to the deep-rooted bond of friendship between our two nations.”
The total number of AstraZeneca vaccine doses that have arrived in the country has now reached 3,680,100, with an initial arrival of 525,600 doses in March, 2,030,400 in May, and 1,124,100 on July 8.
Report from Kenneth Paciente/NGS- jlo
