MMDA, DOTr launch pilot mobile vaccination drive at PITX 

The government is determined to increase the number of vaccinated individuals amid the current spike in new COVID-19 cases. To do just that, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) along with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched a mobile vaccination drive at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). 

MMDA's mobile vaccination drive at PITX

The mobile vaccination drive at PITX will run until January 28, 2022 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. The MMDA targets to inoculate 500 individuals per day, whether for first, second, or booster doses. 

MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos said that the mobile vaccination drive at PITX is the agency’s pilot site. Abalos expressed that the MMDA is planning to expand the said vaccination program to other locations in the National Capital Region (NCR). 

The MMDA has yet to announce the other locations for its mobile vaccination drive. But, the main goal of this program is to accommodate more people to have their COVID-19 vaccination doses and booster shots.

MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos

“The mobile vaccination drive at PITX is our pilot site and we plan to expand this to more accessible sites as we go along. It is not enough to have two COVID-19 doses; it is important to get booster shots to be fully protected from the virus,” Abalos said. 

Meanwhile, the DOTr is also looking to set up vaccination centers in strategic locations. DOTr Undersecretary for Administrative Service Artemio Tuazon Jr. shared that the agency is planning to have vaccination centers at airports, seaports, train stations, exit points of expressways, among other areas. 

The DOTr has also clarified some confusion regarding its ‘No Vaxx, No Ride’ policy. The agency said that partially vaccinated workers are still allowed to take public transportation when commuting to their respective workplaces or going on essential errands. Those who refuse to take the vaccine on medical grounds are also allowed on board, provided that they can show a medical certificate signed by a doctor.   

Data from DOH retained hospitals show vaccines help in fighting COVID-19

Previously, the Department of Health (DOH) reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated to boost protection against the COVID-19 virus. The data from the DOH retained hospitals showed that 85 percent of COVID-19 patients that are confined in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) are not vaccinated.

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