Partners, stakeholders pledge support for DOH Caraga’s vaccination drive
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Government agencies, local government units, and health partners reaffirmed their commitment to support the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga in achieving high immunization coverage for priority children, particularly under the Measles–Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA).
Anchored on national health directives to eliminate measles and rubella, DOH-CHD Caraga highlighted MR-SIA as a critical nationwide campaign aimed at protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases and preventing potential outbreaks at the Kapihan sa PIA held on January 14 at SM City Butuan.
The activity aligns with the Department of Health’s mandate to ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines and strengthen herd immunity across communities.
OIC Regional Director Sadaila K. Raki-in of DOH-CHD Caraga assured the public that the measles-rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and free. “Under MR-SIA, free measles–rubella vaccines are administered to children aged six (6) months to 59 months, regardless of previous vaccination status. The initiative seeks to reduce childhood illness and deaths while reinforcing routine immunization efforts in line with national immunization goals.”
Dr. Karen Mae C. Durac, medical officer IV of DOH-CHD Caraga, said that the regional campaign is guided by the national target of reaching at least 95 percent vaccination coverage among eligible children. “Through the Measles–Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity, the agency is targeting at least 95 percent vaccination coverage to achieve herd immunity and protect communities from outbreaks.”
She emphasized that meeting the target is crucial, noting that measles and rubella are highly contagious and can lead to serious complications and even death, especially among children. “Proper and complete vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent these illnesses and protect our children,” she added.
Dr. Durac further emphasized that MR-SIA complements routine immunization and reflects the government’s continuing commitment to public health protection. She also reminded parents to avoid self-medication, immediately consult health professionals if symptoms arise, and observe health protocols to prevent virus transmission.
Supporting this call, Sharon S. Coja, nurse V of the National Immunization Program, urged parents and guardians to actively participate in the campaign and bring their children to the nearest vaccination sites. “MR-SIA is a vital step in strengthening herd immunity and safeguarding the region from possible outbreaks,” Coja said.
She shared that an estimated 259,200 children in the Caraga region are targeted to receive the measles–rubella vaccine during the MR-SIA rollout scheduled from January 19 to February 13, 2026, with strong collaboration from LGUs, health workers, and partner agencies.
Coja reiterated that the vaccines are free of charge and encouraged parents to complete their children’s vaccination schedule and seek medical advice when needed. “We call on all parents and stakeholders to work together to protect our children and help the region meet national immunization targets.” (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
