Leni awaits Comelec exemptionon Covid-19 programs, projects

By Paulo DS. Papa

Vice President and presidential aspirant Leni Robredo expressed optimism that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will approve the request of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) for election ban exemption so that they could continue the implementation of Angat Buhay, Bayanihan E-Konsulta, Vax Express and Swab Cab projects during the campaign period for the May 9 local and national elections.

Robredo temporarily suspended the OVP’s Covid-19 initiatives earlier this month in anticipation of the election period, which started on Jan. 9, 2022.

Robredo, in a press briefing on Monday, Feb. 7 in Barangay Pacol, Naga City said she is still waiting for the Comelec’ approval of the request for exemption that will pave way for the continuation of the OVP’s projects during the campaign period.

She said she promised Comelec that the OVP will exert efforts not to attribute the projects to her as a presidential candidate.

“Kung dati may isang itsura yung lahat ng mga paraphernalia na ginagamit for those projects, iibahin namin. Kami naiintindihan namin na kailangan ‘to para hindi namin magamit yung pwesto at funds ng pamahalaan para sa aking candidacy” she said.

She explained that many beneficiaries will be deprived of the services provided by the OVP’s projects if Comelec would disapprove the request for exemption.

In addition to Angat Buhay project, the OVP under Robredo is implementing the following projects: Bayanihan E-Konsulta, a project that gives free “teleconsultation” to outpatients without access to doctors and telecommunication platforms; Vax Express, an initiative of the OVP to intensify vaccination drive in partnership with local government units; and Swab Cab, a mobile free antigen testing vehicle that go around communities in partnership with non-profit groups and local government units.