MANILA, Philippines — Malacaang on Thursday expressed optimism that the Philippines can celebrate this year’s Christmas without the need to wear face masks.
In an online Palace briefing, molecular biologist Fr. Nicanor Austriaco Jr., O.P. said containment can be achieved by October, and herd immunity is possible in November if 250,000 vaccinations are conducted daily in the so-called NCR Plus 8.
The NCR Plus 8 covers Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, Bulacan, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, and Rizal.
Containment of COVID-19 is achieved when 40 to 50 percent of a population are vaccinated while herd immunity is attained by inoculating 70 to 80 percent of…
Keep on reading: Palace hopeful PH can celebrate a ‘no-mask’ Christmas