Palace sticks to 2021 vaccination target amid doubts
The Malacañang Palace is determined to fulfill its commitment to fully vaccinate the population within the year despite reports saying the Philippines will be among the last countries to achieve herd immunity.
UK think tank Pantheon Macroeconomics estimated that the country will reach herd immunity by early 2023 based on its current vaccination rate.
“Allow us to prove the think tank wrong…containment, population protection within the year,” said Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.
The country hit a new record with 350,000 daily vaccinations. With the private sector’s initiative to inoculate its employees, Roque said he is confident that the country can soon administer 500,000 doses a day.
Pantheon, however, added that the country is falling behind the fight to reach the 85% herd immunity target against the Delta variant and that it is still too soon for the Philippines to be preparing for the next normal.
