Russia’s claim that it is the first country to approve a vaccine for COVID-19 was met with skepticism and warnings by health experts worldwide.
But the news was welcome for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who even vowed to get injected with the supposed COVID-19 vaccine in public. (READ: Duterte still keen on Russian COVID-19 vaccine despite experts’ warning)
Government officials have since said the Philippines is considering participating in clinical trials for Russia’s vaccine, while at the same time also holding talks with other countries for trials of the vaccines they are developing.
Rappler asked Filipinos: How do you feel about the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia?
Student Rachel Munsayac says it is not necessarily the origin of the vaccine that concerns her, rather that “the fastest vaccine we had ever succeeded in creating was the mumps vaccine and that took a total of 4 years.”
For medical student Lia Paderon, “it is a valid option to import and accept help from other countries who are more far along in their vaccine research development.” But she also believes the issue about accepting foreign help sheds light on inadequate support and funding for local scientists and researchers.
Student Alzel Laguardia brings up the issue of support for Filipino scientists as well. “Kung nakaya ng ibang bansa, I believe kaya rin natin (If other countries can do it, I believe we can do it, too). If we only embrace what our country has to offer and support our scientists, our researchers, we would get through this one.”
As concerns over the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine are raised, pharmacy student Bryan Martinez reiterates the importance of immunization. “People should understand that vaccines are effective and essential as a means to help our immune system in combating pathogens such as viruses or bacteria.” – Rappler.com
This video is co-produced by Rappler interns Aina Robeniol, Graciela Chico, and Nina Liu.
How does this make you feel?