PBBM urges public to support ‘catch-up’ immunization among Bicol kids

By Keren Anne Bernadas

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on the public to actively participate in enhancing the vaccination campaign in the Bicol region, emphasizing the importance of protecting children.

During his recent visit to Sorsogon City, the President addressed thousands of attendees at the Sorsogon Sports Arena, where he also led the inauguration of the facility.

“We need to work together to ensure that more children are vaccinated,” the President stated in Filipino. His call for cooperation coincided with the launch of a catch-up immunization program by the Department of Health (DOH) Bicol Center for Health Development, which took place the same day at the Balogo Gymnasium in Sorsogon City.

DOH Undersecretary for Public Health Services Glenn Matthew Baggao explained that the catch-up drive aims to vaccinate children who missed their vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic and to restore vaccine coverage to pre-pandemic levels. The DOH Bicol CHD has set a target of achieving fully immunized child (FIC) coverage of 95 percent, Baggao said.

Catch-up immunization activities will be intensified from October to December.

“We need to catch up on all those who haven’t been vaccinated or are lacking vaccinations so that everyone has the appropriate vaccine for their age to ensure they are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases,” said Desiree Bricenio, the immunization program manager for DOH Bicol.

In a recent report from the department, the number of FICs in the region reached only 51.3 percent in September 2023 and dropped to 35.3 percent by September 2024.

This means a total of 116,826 children have received zero doses or have not yet accessed their first dose of pentavalent vaccines. Additionally, 101,032 children under one year old have not completed their immunization series, leaving them vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.

To address this concern, DOH Bicol Regional Director Rodolfo Antonio Albornoz told local reporters that vaccinations will provide full protection against severe illness and death.

Melissa Evangelista, a 48-year-old mother from Legazpi City, shared that vaccinations have helped her children grow healthy and avoid diseases.

She also expressed her appreciation for the government’s efforts to provide free vaccines for the people of Bicol.

During a recent event in Sorsogon City, over 200 individuals, including infants, children, pregnant women, and senior citizens received vaccinations.

In September, President Marcos initiated a partnership between the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and the DOH to launch an intensified nationwide vaccination campaign.

He emphasized the importance of collaborating with the media to disseminate public service announcements. (PIA5)