THE Department of Health (DOH) on Friday, September 17, 2021, stressed that getting immunized is not mandatory under Republic Act 11525, or the Covid-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021.

DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said, however, that the DOH is strongly encouraging everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

"While vaccination is not mandatory, we call on all eligible population to register with their respective LGUs and avail COVID-19 vaccines for free for additional protection," said Vergeire.

Vergeire was asked to comment on Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio's order requiring all City Government employees to get vaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

"Vaccine cards shall not be considered as an additional requirement for employment purposes. It is clear under the law that vaccination is not mandatory," Vergeire said.

"We do not recommend that it be made mandatory for an employee to be vaccinated to be able to work," she added.

Duterte-Carpio's Executive Order No. 45—2021 mandates all plantilla, job order and contract employees as well as volunteers to be fully vaccinated on or before November 30, 2021. (HDT / SunStar Philippines)