DOH Extends Measles-Rubella Vaccination Drive in Zamboanga to Boost Coverage
The Department of Health (DOH) has announced an extension of the Ligtas Tigdas Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) until February 20, 2026. This strategic move aims to elevate the vaccination coverage of the eligible population to the critical 95 percent threshold required for robust protection against measles and rubella among children.
Official Announcement and City Collaboration
The extension was formally disclosed during a courtesy visit by DOH officials, spearheaded by Undersecretary Farwa Hombre, to Mayor Khymer Olaso at Zamboanga City Hall on the afternoon of Friday, February 13. During this meeting, Hombre and Olaso reviewed the city's progress in the MR-SIA implementation, which commenced on January 19.
According to the City Health Office (CHO), Zamboanga City achieved an accomplishment rate of 87.53 percent by the close of the initial four-week campaign, securing third place in the Zamboanga Peninsula region. While this reflects a strong execution, health authorities underscored that attaining the 95 percent benchmark is essential to prevent potential outbreaks and ensure community-wide immunity.
Targeted Efforts in Low-Coverage Areas
The additional week until February 20 will focus intensively on villages with suboptimal vaccination turnout. The CHO has identified priority areas including Tugbungan, Limaong, Sta. Maria, Tetuan, Tumulatab, Pasonanca, Sangali, Guiwan, Cabatangan, Tumitus, Curuan, Mangusu, Tigbalabag, and Tumaga.
Vaccination teams from the CHO will persist with house-to-house immunization drives and amplify information campaigns in close coordination with local village officials. This grassroots approach is designed to reach every eligible child and address any barriers to vaccination.
Leadership and Support in Action
Undersecretary Hombre demonstrated hands-on leadership by personally administering vaccines during a visit to the health center in Sta. Catalina village on February 13. Mayor Olaso expressed unwavering support for the initiative, reaffirming the city government's commitment to assist the DOH in ensuring comprehensive vaccination within the extended timeframe.
The MR-SIA campaign is a pivotal component of the nationwide immunization strategy, with this phase targeting Mindanao. Subsequent phases will extend coverage to Luzon and Visayas, aiming to fortify public health defenses across the Philippines.
