DOJ to LGUS: Strictly apply health protocols in vaccination centers

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) ordered local government units (LGUS) last Sunday to strictly implement social distancing and other health protocols for Covid-19 pandemic in various vaccination centers.

Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra said city government officials, barangay officials or those in charge of the vaccination activity may be held administratively liable if it would be found that they have been remiss with their obligation to strictly enforce health and safety protocols.

Guevarra made the statement when asked whether the Interagency Task Force for the Management Emerging Infectious Disease would look into the reported complaints about the way the Manila City government is handling its vaccination program.

There have been reports of violation of basic health protocols, particularly social distancing, in various vaccination sites due to huge numbers of people lining up as early as 3 a.m. to get vaccinated despite the limited number of vaccines allotted for the day.

The problem is being blamed on the “first come, first serve” policy being implemented by the Manila city government for its COVID-19 vaccination program.

Despite its limited vaccines, the Manila city government has also allowed walk-in Covid-19 vaccinations for those under the A4 category (essential workers) including those who are not residing in the city.

“The national task force has given the LGUS a free hand on manner of conducting their vaccination programs, but they are at least expected to observe the minimum health protocols in the vaccination sites to prevent any unwarranted transmission of the Covid-19 virus,” Guevarra said

The DOJ chief, however, said the people should call the attention of their respective mayors or other LGU officials first about their misgivings with regard to the conduct of the vaccination program so that appropriate action can be taken.

“Whoever are directly in charge of the activity may be held liable. Usually, it’s the city or barangay officials,” Guevarra said. “But their attention should be called first so that they could take corrective or preventive action. Sometimes, the situation simply gets out of control.”

A check at the Manila Public Information Office Facebook page showed numerous comments seeking for a better vaccination system to be implemented for Manila residents.