With the looming threat of Delta variant, there is no question that vaccination even in areas under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) classification is an imperative solution.

Section 2 on the Guidelines for Areas Placed Under ECQ of the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines states that “gatherings that are essential for the provision of health services are allowed.” Vaccinations are crucial to build a wall of defense against the Delta variant and to protect the population. Vaccinating individuals in this trying time is an essential health activity. Our mass vaccination program will therefore continue and intensify for first and second dose, notwithstanding next week’s ECQ classification of Metro Manila and other areas.

We have to ensure, however, that public transportation and vaccination sites would have mechanisms to implement minimum public health standards and that the public has to cooperate to ensure the health and safety of everyone – vaccinators and vaccinees alike. To reiterate what the President said, no one is safe until everyone is safe.

On the financial assistance extended to individuals that would be affected by the ECQ imposition, the President’s marching order is for concerned agencies to source for funds to aid those who would be adversely afflicted.###