MANILA, Philippines — The government cannot compel Filipinos to get inoculated against the coronavirus disease, the Department of Health said Monday as a lawmaker pushed to make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for eligible population. While it is not mandating COVID-19 immunization, the government is highly encouraging the public to take part in COVID-19 vaccination, which is one of the most important tools to help end the pandemic. Scientists say that developing immunity through vaccination means there is a reduced risk of getting severe COVID-19. Bill seeking mandatory vaccinationRep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. (Cavite) filed a bill seeking to make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory to people who are eligible to get one. Nearly two months since the start of the country’s vaccination program, only 1.5 million vaccine doses have been so far administered.

Source: Philippine Star April 26, 2021 07:30 UTC