The Department of Health in the Davao Region (DOH-Davao) has officially commenced a critical public health campaign to shield young children from measles and rubella. The ceremonial launch of the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) was held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at SM Lanang Premier in Davao City.
Ceremonial Start and Official Urgings
The event marked the symbolic beginning of the regionwide drive, with the first vaccinations administered to children from Barangay Ubalde. City officials and health workers were present to show support for the initiative. In her address, DOH-Davao Regional Director Officer-in-Charge, Dr. Ellenietta HMV N. Gamolo, made a heartfelt plea to parents, emphasizing that vaccination saves lives. "Ang pagpabakuna ay makaluwas aron makalikay atoang mga anak sa sakit. Dili ma-ospital or dili mamatay ang bata," Dr. Gamolo stated.
Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, the Acting Davao City Health Officer, highlighted the extreme contagiousness of measles. He warned that a single infected child can transmit the virus to 11 or 12 others, creating a significant risk for unvaccinated children, especially those with poor nutrition. "This is a very infectious disease. That is why we encourage every child to be vaccinated," Dr. Ababon said, also noting the role of proper nutrition in fighting severe complications.
Campaign Details and Nationwide Push
Branded as "Chikiting Ligtas," the immunization activity will run from January 19 to February 13, 2026. To ensure wide accessibility, vaccination posts will be set up in barangays, health centers, schools, and various community sites across Davao Region. Health authorities are encouraging all parents and guardians to have their children vaccinated, regardless of their previous immunization history, to help close immunity gaps and achieve broader community protection.
This campaign comes as a direct response to a growing number of children in Mindanao who have missed their routine vaccinations in recent years. To address this vulnerability, the national Department of Health has allocated 3.3 million doses of measles-rubella vaccine for the region. This supply includes an additional 1.3 million doses recently inspected by Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, supplementing the 2 million doses already sent to Mindanao ahead of the rollout.
A Vital Shield Against Preventable Diseases
The MR-SIA, traditionally held every five years, has been implemented ahead of schedule due to the rising count of zero-dose and under-immunized children—a trend that increases the risk of dangerous outbreaks. Measles can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and even death. Rubella is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause serious birth defects in unborn babies.
Health officials have assured the public that the vaccines used are WHO-approved, safe, and effective, with only mild and temporary side effects. Dr. Ababon stressed that the success of the "Chikiting Ligtas" campaign hinges on strong community participation. He reminded parents that timely vaccination remains the most reliable defense against these preventable childhood diseases, safeguarding not only individual children but the entire community's health.
