MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines launched its Covid-19 vaccination drive on Monday, with health workers, soldiers, police and government officials first in line to get donated Chinese jabs despite concerns over their effectiveness.
Key aides of President Rodrigo Duterte, who were among hundreds to get jabs, described getting inoculated as a moral duty.
The rollout started at six Manila hospitals a day after the government, under fire over delays in vaccine procurement, received 600,000 donated doses from Beijing.
“It kindles hope that, after nearly a year in darkness, the light is back on,” said presidential spokesman Harry Roque.
The Philippines has recorded more …
Keep on reading: ‘Light’ after darkness as Philippines COVID-19 vaccinations begin