By Prince Golez

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed his gratitude to Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping for offering to supply the Philippines with their coronavirus vaccine once available.

“I would like tot hank Russia President Putin and China President Xi Jinping for offering to provide us with the vaccine as soon as it is possible for distribution to the public. I cannot overemphasize my debt of gratitude,” according to Duterte.

During his late public address held in Davao City, the Chief Executive said that he will ask both countries for a credit line so his administration can pay for the vaccine.

“Remember, this is not for free for after all they did not develop the vaccine without great expense and also the human network involved,” he also said.

“Bibilhin natin ‘yan, kaya lang kung mahal, if it’s quite expensive, then I will ask my friend President Putin and President Xi Jinping to give us a credit, parang utang, credit line, but we will pay not in one payment but in installments. Basta ang sinasabi ko magbayad tayo, hindi ito libre,” added Duterte.