Duterte considering vaccine mandate in PH

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is considering making a vaccine mandate in the whole country, compelling those who did not want to get vaccinated to receive a shot against the COVID-19 virus.
In his Talk to The People address, Duterte mentioned this idea after claiming that the government is “almost pleading down on our knees” just to acquire additional vaccine doses for the country.
The president added that he is considering this approach “not because we do not believe in your…belief or religion, but because you are a carrier and a danger to society.”
In line with this, Duterte today approved the inoculation of the general population, including children. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque announced that the general public’s vaccination will start this October.
Despite this, healthcare workers, essential employees, senior citizens, people with health risks, and indigents, will remain prioritized.