THE coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine seized from three suspects who were illegally selling these were genuine, but unfit for use, according to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General Eric Domingo.
In a television interview, Domingo said the vaccines were no longer safe for use considering the way it was handled.
The packaging had been opened and the vaccines were not stored at the required temperature.
"Hindi na maaaring gamitin 'yan... Hindi mo na kasi alam 'yung integrity ng cold chain, ng pagha-handle niyan at 'pag ganyang merong doubt, hindi na po natin pinapayagang gamitin sa tao ang ganyan po na mga bakuna," he said.
A nurse from the Manila district hospital and two other persons were arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for illegally selling Sinovac vaccines.
Domingo said they were still trying to determine whether the vaccines were smuggled or taken from the government's supply.
He warned the public against patronizing such illegal activities.
The PNP said both sellers and buyers of illegally procured vaccines will be held liable.
In his public address on Tuesday evening, President Rodrigo Duterte said he will ensure that those who will be caught illegally selling vaccines will be punished.
"This is very alarming. We condemn these acts and we will not allow perpetrators to go unpunished. I order every relevant authority to investigate this matter thoroughly and press charges accordingly," he said.
"Government will take care of that. Maski kayong mga ano mahirapan kayo so do not press your luck too far, you might regret it," Duterte added.
Covid-19 vaccines are free, but the government is prioritizing inoculation of groups A1 (healthcare workers), A2 (senior citizens), A3 (persons with comorbidities), A4 (workers who need to go out) and A5 (indigent). (VoxPop Philippines)