Duterte thanks Russia for 2.8M Sputnik V vaccines

Russian President Vladimir Putin/Photo by Alexey NIKOLSKY / Sputnik / AFP

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday thanked the Russian government for the delivery of 2.8 million doses of “life-saving” Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines.

In a speech on the arrival of the vaccines, Duterte said the delivery is a testament to the “strong support” of the international community in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic.

It also demonstrated the “strong ties” between Russia and the Philippines, he added.

“These deliveries affirm Russia’s commitment to [achieving global] vaccine equity and improving vaccine accessibility to countries, especially the Philippines,” he said in a speech in Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.

“I deeply appreciate Russia’s efforts in fostering cooperation in various areas, including the fight against COVID-19. Goodwill initiatives, such as this vaccine donation and others, demonstrate the strong ties and friendship between Russia and the Philippines,” he added.

He then appealed to Filipinos to “cooperate and do their part” to help overcome the pandemic by getting vaccinated against severe respiratory illness and following health protocols.

“The government cannot do this alone and we need your active participation. Let us celebrate all our meaningful victories against the COVID-19 pandemic. We are winning our battle against the virus. Let us continue to be safe and in good health,” the President said.

READ: 2.8M doses of Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine arrive in PH