President Rodrigo Duterte is seeking the explanation of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on the “dropped the ball” issue or the reported botched negotiation of the Philippines with Pfizer on the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines.
Senator Panfilo Lacson recently disclosed that it was Duque “who dropped the ball” on the vaccine deal with Pfizer for his “indifference” and failure “to work on the necessary document requirement” called Confidentiality Disclosure Agreement.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said it would be better for Duque to issue a clarification on the matter since the Palace does not have direct knowledge of the accusations.
“Hindi namin alam kung ano ang pinag-usapan nila Sec. Locsin, Amb. Romualdez, at ni Sec. Pompeo kaya nga minabuti ng presidente na advisan si (We do not know what Sec. Locsin, Amb. Romualdez, and Sec. Pompeo discussed. That is why the president advised) Sec. Duque to answer the allegations of Sec. Locsin in the same manner that he defended himself in yesterday’s meeting,” Roque stated.
Roque added that President Duterte is not seeing any “major lapse” based on the latter’s “overall demeanor.” Sec. Duque has earlier denied the allegations in his recent statement.
Malacañang assured that negotiations with Pfizer are ongoing. The supply is expected to arrive by the second or third quarter of 2021. – Report from Mela Lesmoras
