Philippines President : I am very Grateful to Russia and China for Providing Us with the New Coronavirus Vaccine, but Hope by Installments

On August 17, Philippine President Duterte said in a televised speech that he was very grateful for Russia and China to provide the Philippines with the new coronavirus vaccine, and hoped that the payment could be made by installments.

Duterte said. 'I want to thank China and Russia for providing us with the new coronavirus vaccine. I must emphasize my gratitude here because it may end the spread of the new coronavirus in our country. Of course, if the vaccine is very expensive, I will ask our friends, China and Russia, whether they can give us loans, just like debts, we will pay in installments.'

Prior to this, Duterte sent a request to China, hoping that the new crown vaccine can be provided to the country as soon as possible after successful development. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded positively. Duterte expressed his thanks for this. It is hoped that with the help of the new coronavirus vaccine, the epidemic in the Philippines can be completely contained.

According to reports, last week Russia announced the registration of the 'world's first' vaccine 'Sputnik-V' against the new coronavirus, and the Philippines subsequently stated that it would participate in the third phase of the vaccine trial in October this year. At the same time, Duterte said, 'I am willing to be the first to accept the Russian new coronavirus vaccine test.'

Earlier, there were reports that Duterte wanted to obtain Russian vaccines for free, but he said in a speech on August 17, 'This is impossible, because the development of vaccines requires Russia and China to pay a high price, and countries around the world are of 'bleeding' economies. Remember, it's not free. I tell you we have to pay, we will not ask for it for free.'