Authorities closing in on individuals involved in selling vaccine slots

Authorities are now reportedly closing in on alleged individuals involved in the selling of vaccination slots in some areas according to Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Benhur Abalos Jr.

Abalos said during the Laging Handa briefing today that Metro Manila mayors are already coordinating with the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation regarding the matter.

“May mga lead na po kami,” said Abalos. “Wina-warningan ko po kayo, the full extent of the law will be applied here.”

Abalos said they are looking to file charges such as fraud, bribery, and violation of the Bayanihan Law against the identified perpetrators.

Abalos reminded Filipinos that COVID-19 vaccines should be free, as these are covered only under the emergency use authority and should not be part of any commercial transaction.

The Department of Interior and Local Government earlier took notice of the issue after a number of users in social media reported the scheme. 

Saw someone offering vaccines and asked my admin to inquire and just found out that they’re selling vaccine slots from LGUs???? WTH??? Why are people still capitalizing on this?! pic.twitter.com/hDscU2HSlN

— Nina (@theninaellaine) May 21, 2021

The price range, according to some social media accounts, are P8,000 for Sinovac and P10,000-P12,000 for the other brands Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Some of the reported areas where there have been instances of people being offered slots for a fee include San Juan, Mandaluyong, and Las Piñas.