Mayor Benjamin Magalong warned the public following the discovery of fake vaccination document transactions in one district health center in the city involving a barangay health worker and unvaccinated residents.
“To those perpetrating fabrication, know that the city government will not take this matter lightly and will get to the bottom of it. And to those resorting to this scheme to skirt the vaccination requirement, please think twice. You are not only compromising your health, you are also engaging in a criminal act,” the mayor said.
In an investigation report to the mayor dated July 29, Baguio City Police Office Director Glenn Lonogan said Lucban Health Center Medical Officer IV Maria Lourdes Pakoy verified an unvaccinated female resident of Lower Brookside barangay had complained against a female barangay health worker who allegedly offered to issue her a vaccination card with QR code in exchange for P3,000.
The complainant alleged the health worker received the amount but did not produce the promised document. She demanded for a refund but the worker failed to pay her back.
Lonogan said the health worker was asked to resign from work after admitting to the deed.
Screenshots of text messages submitted to investigators showed there was similar transaction made with the complainant’s neighbor.
“Dr. Pakoy also stated cases of fake vaccination cards were observed last year when they conducted booster shorts in selected venues within the central business district,” the police chief said. He said investigations will continue on the incident. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
