MANILA -- The Bureau of Customs Port of Cebu-Subport of Mactan cleared last Wednesday, July 21, 51,480 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine from Belgium.
The second vaccine shipment which arrived in Mactan-Cebu International Airport was consigned to Pfizer Philippines under private procurement. The shipment was cleared the day prior, July 20 which was a holiday, through the pre-clearance scheme to facilitate the immediate release of the vaccines.
Upon arrival, the shipment was underguarded by the BOC COVAX Special Handling Team together with theDOH Region VII Convoy Team until its delivery to the designated storage facility in Cebu City.
“Critical in the release of vaccines are planning and coordination with concerned government agencies. We ensure that all documents are processed, and all contingencies are considered beforehand to ensure that these vaccines are immediately released upon their arrival,”said Mactan Subport Collector Gerardo A. Campo.
In compliance with the directive of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, all vaccine importations are given utmost priority to ensure expedited release of time-and-temperature-sensitive vaccines. (BOC)
