The Department of Health (DOH) is launching a massive immunization campaign to protect millions of Filipino children from dangerous yet preventable diseases. The nationwide Ligtas Tigdas program is set to begin on January 19, 2026, with the ambitious goal of vaccinating an estimated 11 million children.
Nationwide Rollout to Combat Measles and Rubella
This critical public health initiative aims to shield the country's youth from measles, known locally as tigdas, and rubella, or tigdas-hangin. Health authorities emphasize that these contagious diseases are not mere childhood rites of passage. They can lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, diarrhea, blindness, and even death, particularly among the very young.
The DOH firmly states that vaccination remains the most effective shield against these threats. The Ligtas Tigdas campaign is designed to strengthen population-wide immunity and prevent potential outbreaks that could overwhelm communities and healthcare systems.
Regional Targets and Eligibility
The department has set specific regional targets to ensure comprehensive coverage across the archipelago. The campaign aims to reach approximately 5.6 million children in Luzon, 2.8 million in Mindanao (including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), and 1.9 million in the Visayas.
Eligibility for the campaign is broad to maximize protection. All children aged six to 59 months, or up to five years old, are included. Crucially, this vaccination will be administered regardless of a child's previous vaccination status. This approach ensures no child is left vulnerable due to missed routine doses.
It is important to note that this mass campaign supplements, and does not replace, the routine immunization schedule. Infants should still receive their standard measles vaccinations at nine and 12 months old as part of their regular healthcare.
A Crucial Step for Public Health
The scale of this undertaking underscores the DOH's commitment to proactive disease prevention. By aiming to immunize 11 million young Filipinos, the government is investing in a healthier future and working to prevent the heartbreak and healthcare costs associated with vaccine-preventable diseases.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to participate fully in this lifesaving program. Bringing eligible children to designated health centers and posts during the campaign period is a simple yet powerful act to ensure their long-term wellbeing and contribute to the nation's collective health security.
