GMA Network to buy Moderna vaccines for employees, talents

LISTED MEDIA company GMA Network, Inc. announced on Wednesday that it would buy doses of coronavirus vaccines from biotechnology company Moderna for its employees and talents.

“GMA is providing free COVID-19 vaccines for its employees and talents,” the media company said in an e-mailed statement.

It said its vaccination program covers regular and probationary employees, project employees, and exclusive talents on a “voluntary basis.”

GMA Network Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Felipe L. Gozon said, “Ensuring the health and well-being of our (employees) is our utmost priority as we truly value our people as our best assets.”

“As a result, this vaccination coverage will enable us to continue (our public service), as we all strive to win against this pandemic,” he added.

On Monday, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said he would allow private companies to import coronavirus vaccines because of the slow rollout of the government’s vaccination program.

To recall, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on March 17 called on the government to let the private sector import and buy coronavirus vaccines “directly” from accredited sources “without conditions.”

According to the business group, the private sector should be allowed to buy and import vaccines for their employees and their families “tax-free.”

“This will reduce pressure from the government, which has a limited budget to inoculate all or even 70% of the population,” the group said. — Arjay L. Balinbin