THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Health (DOH) in partnership with SM Malls kicked off on Friday their mobile vaccination drive at SM City Bicutan in Paranaque City aimed to bring inoculation drives closer to communities.

Dubbed as “Resbakuna Caravan at SM,” the MMDA-initiated mobile vaccination intends to provide COVID-19 primary and booster doses. The vaccination starts today, February 25 until 27, 10 am to 4 pm, at the Event Center, Mall Building A.

Leading the launch, MMDA Officer-In-Charge and General Manager Romando Artes said the agency’s vaccination team is tasked to administer the COVID-19 shots.

“We want to thank the SM Malls for opening the doors of SM City Bicutan for our mobile vaccination drive. This accessible vaccination site can serve more people who need to get vaccinated for primary and booster doses,” said Artes in his speech.

Artes said that the vaccination caravan will continue in other SM malls to encourage more people to get their COVID-19 booster shots.

Department of Health-National Capital Region Regional Director Dr. Gloria J. Balboa, for her part, said this endeavor would increase the public’s access to inoculation, wherein “people can shop and at the same time get vaccinated.”

“We appreciate the big support from the private sector to the vaccination efforts of the government,” said Balboa.

According to Balboa, only around 30 percent of qualified individuals in Metro Manila have received their booster doses. “So we reiterate our appeal for all eligible individuals to complete their primary doses; get their booster shots to protect not only themselves and loved ones, but the entire community.”

Meanwhile, SM Supermalls Senior Vice President Bien Mateo said they remain committed to the national and local government in providing convenient and safe vaccination sites.

Walk-ins are allowed. Registration is done onsite. Those who want to get vaccinated for booster shots will be given priority.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Edd Reyes