By Jennifer P. Rendon
Personnel of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division just got their much needed “shot in the arm.”
The 3rd ID confirmed Tuesday that 600 personnel already received the Covid-19 vaccine.
Major General Eric Vinoya, 3rd ID commander, was the first to be inoculated by the Sinovac vaccine “to boost the confidence of the men and women of the Spearhead Division.”
The vaccine was administered at the 3rd ID headquarters based in Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on March 15.
Major Cenon Pancito III, 3rd ID spokesperson, said that the personnel of the Camp Peralta Station Hospital, led by Major Alexander Zapanta, were prioritized in the vaccination.
Other officers, including Pancito, and enlisted personnel assigned at the control points and quarantine areas followed.
Lt. Gen. Roberto Ancan, Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command (CentCom) commander, led the vaccination rollout for soldiers in Western and Central Visayas.
The 1,200 vials of Sinovac vaccines arrived at Iloilo International Airport evening of March 8.
“It was supposed to be for 1,200 personnel but given the concerns of logistics, it was only given to 600 personnel to make sure that they get a second dose in the event that there would be a delay in the transportation of vaccines intended for the second dose,” Vinoya said.
Vinoya said the vaccination rollout was a step to victory in defeating the virus.
“As I look upon in the eyes of each Spearhead Trooper, I can sense a great feeling of victory in your hearts as we are about to experience the privilege of being vaccinated with the first COVID-19 vaccine that is available in our country, the Sinovac vaccine,” he said.
For the 3rd ID troops, Ancan’s presence and assurance are reason enough that the Sinovac vaccine can indeed boost their capability to perform their mandated task.
Vinoya also thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for giving the 3ID a chance to be at the forefront once again in the government’s fight against COVID-19 through the vaccines.
“Let us all consider this as a privilege, an opportunity, and a responsibility. A privilege for being one of the first recipients of the vaccine, an opportunity to inspire and to lead the Filipino people in this vaccination campaign of the government, and responsibility to be more effective and productive servants and protector for the people in this time of crisis,” Vinoya said.
Meanwhile, Ancan lauded all the medical staff and personnel of Camp Peralta Station Hospital for their significant contribution during this time of pandemic.
He again reminded them to still practice the minimum standard of health protocols after being vaccinated.
