MANILA – The Philippines has now secured 20 million doses of the novel coronavirus vaccine by U.S. biotech firm Moderna, Inc., the pharmaceutical company announced on Monday.
Moderna, Inc. said it has reached a new supply agreement with the Southeast Asian country for seven million additional doses through a partnership with the private sector.
The Philippine government had initially procured 13 million doses last March 6, with deliveries set to begin in mid-2021.
“We appreciate the continued confidence demonstrated by the government of the Philippines through this new agreement, as well as the support of the private sector, resulting in 20 million doses secured for the country,” Moderna Chief Executive Officer Stéphane Bancel said in a statement.
“This agreement supports the ongoing efforts in the Philippines to secure access to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine and reflects Moderna’s continued commitment to expanding access to its vaccine around the world,” he added.
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, however, has yet to secure an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines.
“The company will work with regulators to pursue necessary approvals prior to distribution,” Moderna assured. - Florenda Corpuz
