Iloilo City eyes bigger vaccination site

• Iloilo City looks to add Iloilo Convention Center as an additional vaccination site.

• Around 22,000 Ilonggos have already been inoculated.

Iloilo City is eyeing a more spacious vaccination site to cater to many people while practicing proper protocol on physical distancing.

“We are talking to the operators of Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) for the use of their facilities as vaccination center. They are very willing to let us use it for free. The COVID team will inspect if it’s feasible,” Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said.

The city is currently using the gym of Central Philippine University (CPU) in Jaro district.

Treñas thanked CPU as mega vaccination center for supporting the city’s vax roll-out.

The ICON will be an additional vax site aside from Ateneo School Gym, also in Mandurriao district. The city has also utilized SM City mall and John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University in Molo district.

Some 22,000 frontliners, seniors and immuno-compromised as priority groups were vaccinated from supplies of the Department of Health (DOH).

A total of 300,000 residents and 100,000 non-residents working in the city are targeted to avail of city-purchased AstraZeneca doses expected to start arriving in June or July.

City Hall personnel are augmented by Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, medical volunteers, and university employees in the vaccination process.

“They are manning all places to ensure minimum health standards are observed by everyone. They also make sure everyone is assessed, vaccinated and observed at the earliest possible time. To all of you, I give my snappiest salute and thank you,” said Treñas.

Those willing to get the vaccine should register first in their barangays or malls and wait for their schedule. Only those given with official ticket will be allowed during vaccination day. Walk-ins will not be entertained. (Iloilo City PIO)