The Philippine government is prepared to sell the country’s assets in order to fun the purchase of a COVID-19 vaccine once it is available, the Palace said on July 3.
As of writing, there is no certified treatment, cure, or vaccine for COVID-19 yet.
“Basta po mayroon ng gamot diyan sa COVID-19. Basta may bakuna, ibebenta natin lahat ng ari-arian ng gobyerno para makabili po tayo para sa ating mga kababayan,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press briefing.
He also stressed the President Rodrigo Duterte prioritized lives over the country’s assets.
“Iyan po ang paninindigan ni Presidente, buhay muna bago ari-arian.”
In April, Duterte said selling the country’s assets could be an option should funds for COVID-19 response and relief run out.
Additionally, Duterte said all countries should be given fair and easy access to COVID-19 treatments, cures, and vaccines once discovered and made available.
