MANILA - The Philippines on Wednesday received 700,000 doses of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine donated by the Australian government that will boost the country's national vaccination rollout.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque, National Task Force Against Covid-19 Chief Implementer Carlito Galvez Jr., and representatives from the Australian Embassy led by Ambassador Steven J. Robinson graced the arrival ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

The latest shipment of Covid-19 vaccine was part of approximately 3.6 million doses committed by Australia for the Philippines' vaccination program until the end of 2022.

"Australia remains steadfast in our commitment to support our friends, the Philippines, to boost its national vaccine rollout and sustain its recovery. I am very pleased that the Australian government continues to make an important contribution to the Philippines Covid-19 response and vaccine access and delivery needs," Robinson said.

"Our dose donations, procurement and COVAX funding will boost the Philippines' supply. But we recognize that the Philippines also needs to address complex distribution challenges to ensure that doses reach the people who need them. That is why we are providing comprehensive, end-to-end deliver assistance, including PHP1.19 billion worth of vaccine delivery support which will enhance the Philippines' capacity to distribute doses to remote areas and to vulnerable populations," he added.

According to the NTF, a total of 135,161,900 vaccines have arrived in the country since the start of the vaccination last March 1.

It said an average of 829,254 jabs are being administered daily, bringing to a total of 34,199,500 individuals who are now fully vaccinated and 43,290,294 others who received the first dose.

A total of 70,500 vaccines have also been administered as booster shots to qualified recipients. (PNA)