In a bid to further intensify information campaigns on COVID-19 protocols and vaccination concerns, Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) conducted a one-day webinar via the PFDA Facebook page entitled "Bakuna Kontra Corona: A Webinar on COVID-19 Vaccine Misinformation and Hesitancy" on May 26, 2021.
For the third episode of the PFDA Bulletin organized by the Public Information Division (PID) and Human Resource Division – Administrative Services Department (HRD-ASD), the agency aims to promote a positive outlook and professionally address the stigma surrounding COVID-19 vaccination.
Global Filipino Network host and book author Mr. Marcelino Russell Catan shared his knowledge about the COVID-19 virus and the importance of vaccines through the eyes of a survivor and with the help of recent studies about the virus.
With the help of recent studies, Mr. Catan discussed the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, important steps to stay safe, and necessary measures to take if you are infected by the virus. In addition, Mr. Catan talked about the development, emergency use authorization, and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines.
"Ang pinakamabisang bakuna ay ang ituturok sa braso natin. Kung ano po ang nandiyan ay tanggapin na po natin dahil hindi po natin iyan ikamamatay o ikaka-ospital. Huwag po tayong magpakalat ng fake news. Sana po ay positive ang kaisipan natin dahil kayang kaya po nating labanan ang pandemya na ito," Mr. Catan explained.
Subsequently, PFDA Medical Officer Dr. Maritoni Jane Catan answered and clarified several questions and uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 vaccination from online viewers and the registration form.
"Gawin natin ang kung ano ang pwede nating gawin. Sa bayanihan tayo magtatagumpay. The vaccines are important, but the Lord is our protector and healer," Dr. Catan said.
PFDA-Central Office and Regional Fish Port personnel and clients attended the online discussion about the importance of being vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.
Mr. Mc Christian Julius A. Macaranas II from PID and Ms. Mary Anne Kristine R. Ramos from HRD-ASD served as the moderators for the said activity.
If you missed the live stream video, you could still watch the replay of the webinar by visiting the PFDA Facebook page or by searching #PFDABulletinCOVIDVaccine.
(Mark Angelo N. Perez – Public Information Division)