The Department of Health (DOH) has sounded the alarm following a significant surge in measles and rubella cases across the Philippines in the past year, prompting an urgent and targeted immunization response.
Alarming Case Numbers Prompt Action
In a recent television interview, DOH Spokesperson Albert Domingo revealed that the total number of recorded measles and rubella cases for the entire year of 2025 reached 5,159. This concerning figure has pushed health authorities to initiate a critical public health campaign.
The outbreak was not evenly distributed nationwide. Data indicates that a majority of the infections were concentrated in several key regions:
- Mimaropa
- Zamboanga Peninsula
- Northern Mindanao
- Soccsksargen
- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
- National Capital Region (NCR)
Mindanao Targeted in Phase 1 of Vaccination Drive
Due to the high concentration of cases, the DOH has strategically chosen to begin its Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR SIA) in Mindanao. The timing of this campaign is particularly crucial.
Spokesperson Domingo emphasized that the immunization drive must be completed before the start of Ramadan on February 17. He explained the department's respectful approach, stating, "We do not want to disturb our Muslim brothers and sisters while they are meditating during Ramadan. That is why it is better to vaccinate children during this time."
The vaccination campaign is aimed at protecting the most vulnerable age group: children from six months old up to five years of age.
Two-Phase National Immunization Schedule
The DOH has outlined a clear two-phase plan for the nationwide MR SIA. The first phase will be rolled out exclusively in Mindanao, running from January 19, 2026, until February 13, 2026.
Phase 2 of the extensive vaccination campaign is scheduled for June 2026 and will cover the Luzon and Visayas regions. This staggered approach allows health workers to focus resources on the current epicenter of the outbreak while preparing for a broader national effort later in the year.
The DOH's proactive measures highlight the ongoing threat of vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of timely immunization to safeguard public health, especially among young children.
