RA11525: COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAM ACT OF 2021
This Act establishes the COVID-19 Vaccination Program, a comprehensive initiative to address the pandemic through the procurement and administration of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. It authorizes the Department of Health (DOH) and the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) to procure vaccines and ancillary supplies through negotiated procurement under emergency cases, ensuring price uniformity and preventing competition. The law also allows local government units (LGUs) and private entities to procure vaccines in cooperation with the DOH and NTF, expanding access to vaccination efforts across the country.
A key provision is the establishment of a COVID-19 National Vaccine Indemnity Fund, administered by PhilHealth, to compensate individuals who experience serious adverse effects (SAEs) from vaccination, including death, permanent disability, or hospital confinement. Additionally, the Act grants immunity from suit and liability to public officials, employees, contractors, manufacturers, and volunteers involved in the vaccination program, except in cases of willful misconduct and gross negligence, to expedite vaccine deployment. The law also mandates the DOH to issue a vaccine card to all vaccinated persons, contributing to data collection and monitoring of the program's progress. These measures collectively aim to protect public health by facilitating widespread and safe vaccination, while providing a safety net for those who may experience adverse reactions.