The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) instructed local government units (LGUs) nationwide to prepare local vaccine plans as more jabs are procured by the national government.

“In preparation for the program implementation upon the arrival of the vaccines, the LGUs are hereby directed to prepare a vaccination plan in compliance to the DOH guidelines on the national vaccination program,” the DILG said in a 5-page memorandum issued on Tuesday, January 19.

The memorandum was signed by DILG Secretary Eduardo Año. If LGUs fail to comply, they may face administrative complaints or delays in receiving vaccines from the national government.

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What LGUs need to do

The DILG issued a list of items for LGUs to comply with, namely:

1. Preparation of information campaigns to encourage vaccinations
2. Preparation of a master list of priority individuals in compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines
3. Identification of possible vaccine centers with cold storage facilities and other logistical equipment
4. Preparation of a master list of human resources and personnel needed in the vaccination program, like doctors, barangay health workers, and other medical personnel
5. Attendance of health personnel to vaccination training programs at the Department of Health website at learn.doh.gov.ph
6. Reorganization of emergency operations centers to include a dedicated arm for vaccination concerns
7. Preparation of barangay personnel and volunteers to assist the vaccination program

How it’s part of the national plan

The DILG also said LGUs should constantly coordinate with local DOH offices for more advisories, and also with the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection for logistical help.

Once they arrive, vaccines will be stored in the government and third-party warehouses. They will then be deployed to local health offices and hospitals.

LGUs may procure vaccines on their own and may seek help from the national government. – Rappler.com