Poe: Expanded use of vaccine cards key to balancing health and economy

Sen. Grace Poe pushed for the expansion of the objectives of the COVID-19 vaccine card to fast-track economic recovery.

"The purpose is purely for record-keeping. Beyond that, the cards have no use. Bakuna talaga ang susi sa better normal. Habang ang pangunahing layunin nito ay protektahan tayo mula sa COVID-19 virus, hindi maikakaila na instrumental ito para makabalik tayo sa ating mga buhay sa labas at mapasigla muli ang ekonomiya," said Poe.

In her opening statement during the hearing for the vaccine passport program, Poe pointed out that the absence of legislation and the lack of standard appearance and format for vaccine cards among local government units have not added to the credibility of vaccine cards.

"We cannot use our vaccination cards to travel for work, leisure or to access goods and services, among other things, as the rules remain restrictive to all individuals regardless of vaccination status," Poe said.

As of last week, more than 37 million vaccines have been administered where over 15 million individuals have received their second dose.

"A healthy citizenry and a safe environment will spur the economic revival that we sorely need," said Poe.

The senator earlier filed Senate Bill No. 2321 amending the "COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act" or Republic Act 11525 to include international and domestic travel so that overseas Filipino workers can go back to work.

"Sa kasalukuyan, ang vaccine card sa ilalim ng Republic Act 11525 or the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act ay tila ba talaan lamang ng klase ng bakunang naibigay," underscored Poe.