NBI, ordered to investigate smuggling of COVID-19 vaccines to PH – DOJ chief

Sinovac from China, possibly the first batch of COVID-19 vaccine to reach PH by 2021 - Galvez — Pinas priority on COVID-19 vaccine

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has instructed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the alleged smuggling of unregistered COVID-19 vaccines into the country.

According to Guevarra, it has instructed NBI OIC Chief Eric Distor to immediately investigate the reported unauthorized distribution and injection of the vaccine against coronavirus.

Investigators will look into possible violations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Act, Consumer Act, and the Medical Practice Act.

Guevarra clarified that the order was a “general instruction” and did not address any group or incident.

“We are not zeroing in on the PSG or any particular incident of unauthorized vaccination,” said Guevarra.

Earlier, Presidential Security Group (PSG) Commander BGen revealed. Jesus Durante III that they themselves requested the vaccine and that President Rodrigo Duterte or any other government agencies did not know about it.