Members of the agriculture industry are now seeking prioritization in the COVID-19 vaccination program of the Philippines as the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines nears.
According to Rosendo So, chairperson of the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG), the agriculture sector is also considered a “frontliner” because “’yung food security natin, ito ‘yung nagpo-produce (our food security relies on their production).”
“Ang workforce nito ay around 11 million na tao at itong ganito karami ay makakatulong to [sa] food security natin (Its workforce is around 11 million individuals who can help in our food security),” So justified.
The government is prioritizing frontline health workers, uniformed personnel, senior citizens, and indigent individuals in its vaccination program.
Senate Committee on Health and Demography Chairperson Christopher Go assured that farmers are among the priorities of President Rodrigo Duterte, saying the vaccines should be free for farmers and the poor. – Report from Cleizl Pardilla
