The Department of Health (DOH) has raised the alarm over a significant increase in measles infections across the Philippines, prompting plans for a major nationwide vaccination campaign next year.
Sharp Rise in Measles Infections Nationwide
In an official announcement made on Saturday, December 20, 2025, the health agency revealed troubling statistics. From January 1 to December 6, 2025, the country recorded a total of 4,843 measles cases. This figure represents a substantial 29 percent increase compared to the 3,748 cases reported during the same period in 2024.
The outbreak is not evenly distributed, with certain regions bearing the brunt of the infections. The areas with the highest number of cases are:
- National Capital Region (NCR): 1,027 cases
- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM): 768 cases
- Calabarzon: 505 cases
Vaccination Status of Cases and Official Response
A critical detail from the DOH data highlights a direct link to vaccination coverage. The department noted that 73 percent of the total cases, or 3,511 individuals, were unvaccinated against measles. This underscores the vital role of immunization in preventing the disease.
"If children between six months and five years old are vaccinated, they are protected from the risk of measles," the DOH emphasized in its statement.
In response to the surge, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa outlined a concrete plan during a radio interview. The department is preparing to launch a Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR SIA) in 2026.
Phased National Immunization Drive Set for 2026
The mass vaccination campaign will specifically target children aged six months to five years old. Secretary Herbosa detailed a two-phase rollout:
- Phase 1: Will be conducted in Mindanao from January 19 to February 13, 2026.
- Phase 2: Will follow in Luzon and the Visayas in June 2026.
"The Department, in partnership with local governments, will intensify vaccination against measles and rubella to prevent child deaths due to the disease," Herbosa stated, affirming the government's commitment to curbing the outbreak.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms including high fever, a distinctive rash, cough, and red, watery eyes. It can lead to severe complications, especially in young, malnourished, or unvaccinated children. The planned DOH immunization drive aims to build a stronger shield of community protection and halt the current upward trend in infections.
