OFWs in Russia willing to join clinical trials of Sputnik V

Several overseas Filipino workers (OFW) in Russia are considering to participate in the clinical trials for Sputnik V, the world's first approved coronavirus vaccine made by Russia. It is despite the concerns over its safety.

Photo credit: trtworld.com

The leader of the Filipino association in Russia Nico Castor said that he is willing to participate in the clinical trials for the COVID-19 vaccine. He said that he feel nervous but it is more of excitement, hoping that it will be effective. 

While some OFWs are wary over the vaccine’s safety, he said many are still confident in Sputnik V’s effectiveness.

Sabi taon bago madiskubre ang bakuna sa isang sakit pero alam naman ho natin na isa ang Russia sa pinakamagaling, dalubhasa pagdating sa pagdiskubre ng bakuna para sa malubhang sakit,

 Castor said.

[They said it will take years before they might discover a vaccine to a new disease, but we know Russia is one of the best, they are experts when it comes to discovering a vaccine for severe diseases.]

Aside from Castor, other Filipinos also volunteered in the trials, they are willing to undergo if it means to stop the virus.

In earlier reports, Malacañang issued a statement saying that the Philippines is ready to work with Russia in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

The statement came after Russia last week expressed willingness to supply COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines and proposed conducting clinical trials and the setting up of a vaccine production hub in the country.

The Palace said through the Office of the Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs,

The Philippines stands ready to work with Russia on clinical trials, vaccine supply and production, and other areas deemed practicable by relevant Philippine and Russian agencies to address this global health emergency, 

On Tuesday, President Vladimir Putin said Russia had become the first country to grant regulatory approval to a COVID-19 vaccine after less than two months of human testing.