Officials from the Department of Health (DOH) have assured lawmakers that there are ample funds to prepare for the emerging COVID-19 variants, including the procurement of updated vaccine doses to protect vulnerable Filipinos.
Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo elicited this response from the DOH during Wednesday’s oversight hearing at the House Committee on Appropriations, where she sits as vice chairperson. Quimbo raised the topic after she read reports, claiming that the government has no budget for updated vaccines.
Quimbo scrutinized the budget management of DOH, pointing out its substantial but underutilized funds. “Do you have a lot of money? It’s very clear that the DOH’s spending is very slow, not only this year but in previous years,” Quimbo said, highlighting the slow utilization of resources.
DOH Undersecretary Achilles Gerard Bravo confirmed the availability of funds, explaining the department’s readiness to adjust its budget as needed.
“We have so many funds at the DOH, even from the Continuing Appropriations in 2023 and the current. If there’s a need to provide for the emerging COVID variant, we can always make some modifications within our budget,” Bravo assured.
Bravo outlined the department’s plan to reallocate unused funds. He said they are collating all the resources of DOH, assessing savings and the Continuing Appropriations of other programs, and will prioritize the reallocation to fast-moving appropriations.
House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Representative Janette Garin emphasized the importance of readiness over panic regarding the so-called “FLiRT” variant. She urged the DOH to focus on vaccination and access to pneumonia and flu vaccines.
Garin, a former Health Secretary and physician, also called for ensuring free hospitalization and medication for healthcare workers and immunocompromised individuals. Bravo confirmed the department’s commitment to utilizing its savings to meet these needs.
DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Francis Domingo denied claims of a budget shortfall for new COVID-19 vaccines, reinforcing the department’s preparedness.
