BOC warns public against proliferation of fake COVID-19 vaccines

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) warns the public on possible influx of fake and smuggled coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccines into the market as various pharmaceutical companies worldwide race for the formulation that would defeat the deadly virus.
The BOC cited an article released by Europol and the United States Department of Homeland Security which mentioned the great possibility that organized crime groups may exploit the highly lucrative COVID-19 vaccine market.
The article also stated that in some countries, crime groups have already tried to market fake influenza vaccines which were not manufactured and proven to be falsified.
Thus, the BOC advises the public to remain vigilant and report the presence of suspected smuggled and fake vaccines in the country.
The BOC also warned the public of vaccines being sold online as these items may be fake and could cause serious health problems.
In recent announcements, the government reiterated that any drug or vaccine such as the COVID-19 vaccine must be registered and approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before being released into the market.