SENATOR Emmanuel D. Pacquiao, Sr., a candidate for President, said on Wednesday that he opposes restrictions on the mobility of the unvaccinated, calling the decision to be inoculated a “personal choice.”
Mr. Pacquiao said authorities should instead persuade the unvaccinated by explaining the benefits of getting shots, instead of using compulsion.
“Let us not treat them like criminals. Let us not deny them their right to work and buy their necessities,” Mr. Pacquaio said in a statement in Filipino.
He urged the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Philippine National Police, the Department of Transportation, and local government units not to implement such restrictions if mandatory safety protocols are observed.
Mr. Pacquiao noted the need to respect those who remain unvaccinated out of personal or religious belief, adding that no law compels vaccination.
“There is no basis in any law that stops unvaccinated individuals from (moving freely) in the community,” he said. “Those who want to get vaccinated should go get vaccinated, but for those who don’t want to, let us give them the right to stand up for their beliefs.” — Alyssa Nicole O. Tan
