Gov’t ramps up efforts to tackle COVID vaccine misinformation

By Prince Golez

Malacañang has vowed to continue its “intensified” communications and information campaigns to educate and encourage the public to get vaccinated once a coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine becomes available.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar made the statement after Senate President Vicente Sotto III lamented the apprehension among Filipinos to get vaccinated due to safety concerns.

Andanar said that “misinformation and disinformation” by some individuals and groups fuel public fear of vaccination.

“With clear and concise communications and information drives, knowledge and clarity on the matter will be achieved,” he added.

According to him, the Presidential Communications Operations Office has tapped social and traditional media platforms to inform Filipinos about the government’s vaccine program against Covid-19.

“Through our Laging Handa Communications and Information Campaign, alongside different national and local agencies, we are able to communicate and enlighten Filipinos on important information related to the pandemic, government policies, and recovery programs, especially our vaccination program,” said Andanar.

He added that its Laging Handa website, press briefings, “Explain, Explain Explain: Pagdalaw” events, Town Hall meetings, and Media Literacy trainings have also been vital towards achieving the target of getting at least 70 percent of the country’s total population inoculated.

“We want to deliver to them the message that the vaccination program can save lives, revive hopes, and shape our collective future as a nation,” the secretary concluded.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)