The use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine began this Wednesday in some cities in Metro Manila.
The vaccines were first distributed in Metro Manila, Cebu City, Davao City, and Quirino province because they have the capacity for cold storage.
One of the first cities to receive it was San Juan, which received 11,700 doses on Tuesday.
According to Mayor Francis Zamora, the vaccines were immediately directed to the rented ultra-low freezer.
“Pinag-aralan ito mabuti para masigurong maayos ang handling para mapanatili ang efficacy,” said Zamora.
On Wednesday, 198 people were vaccinated in the test run of in San Juan, including Cesar Salita.
“Pinagdadasal ko dahil lagi ko pinapanood sa TV na may dumating na Pfizer, timing naman nag-text sakin ang San Juan, na sana Pfizer ang i-inject sakin,” said Salita.
Milagros Lucas was also convinced to register for vaccination when it became clear that Pfizer could be injected.
“Ayoko magka-COVID eh,” she said.
Through the QR code, the San Juan city government ensured that the medical team was quickly monitoring any possible adverse effects of all vaccines.
Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination begins in some cities
Along with Pfizer’s newly arrived doses, San Juan also has an additional 12,000 doses of AstraZeneca, which should be consumed by July.
According to Zamora, due to the new supplies, it is expected that up to 2,000 residents can be vaccinated per day.
In Makati, some residents were also convinced to get vaccinated when there was probably already a supply of AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines.
Makati received more than 5,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine on Tuesday.
“Sabi ng doctor ko, kung ano available vaccine, ‘yon ang best vaccine,” said resident Maricar Macapagal.
According to Mayor Abby Binay, it seems that they now have more vaccines than those who are vaccinated because only a few are registering online.
But the mayor hopes that the vaccine acceptance rate will also increase due to the arrival of new vaccine supplies.
The Makati health department also clarified that the brand of vaccine cannot be chosen.
Meanwhile, the Philippine vaccine expert panel announced that it is also possible for Pfizer and Moderna to apply for emergency use authorization (EUA) to vaccinate minors.
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