THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region has called for the full support of local government units (LGUs), national government agencies, private organizations, schools, healthcare institutions, civil society groups, faith-based organizations, media, and community leaders to ensure the success of the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) this August, stressing that protecting every child is a shared responsibility.
The appeal was made during the Stakeholders Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity held on July 7, 2026, in Lingayen, Pangasinan, where partners reaffirmed their commitment to safeguard children against measles and rubella—two highly contagious vaccine-preventable diseases that continue to pose a serious public health threat when immunization coverage declines.
DOH Ilocos Region aims to vaccinate at least 95 percent of eligible children across the region, the level required to achieve herd immunity and prevent outbreaks that can lead to severe illness, lifelong disability, and even death among young children.
Regional Director Helen D. Tobias emphasized that achieving this target demands a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, where every sector plays a vital role in reaching every eligible child.
“No child should suffer from diseases that are entirely preventable through safe and effective vaccines,” Tobias said. “Our goal of reaching 95 percent vaccination coverage is more than a public health target—it is our commitment to protect every child and every family in the Ilocos Region. We call on our governors, mayors, barangay officials, educators, health workers, partner agencies, civil society organizations, faith leaders, the private sector, and the media to stand with us. Together, we can overcome misinformation, strengthen vaccine confidence, prevent outbreaks, save lives, and secure a healthier future for the next generation.”
The Department reiterated that the measles-rubella vaccine has been extensively proven to be safe, effective, and lifesaving, protecting children from complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, permanent disability, congenital rubella syndrome, and death. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against these diseases and is a cornerstone of child health and disease prevention.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to have their eligible children vaccinated once schedules are announced by their respective city and municipal health offices. Vaccination will be provided free of charge through government health facilities, schools, and designated outreach sites throughout the region.
A total of 444,512 children from the 6-59-month-old the target population will be vaccinated – Ilocos Norte with 42,632, Ilocos Sur: 48,683, La Union: 62,585, Pangasinan: 275,230 and Dagupan City with 15,382.
As the August rollout approaches, DOH Ilocos Region is intensifying its call for stronger partnerships to combat misinformation, promote accurate health information, and ensure that no eligible child is left behind.
“Every vaccinated child is one step closer to a healthier, safer, and more resilient Ilocos Region. Protect every child. Support the August Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity. Together, let us achieve 95 percent coverage and build a future free from vaccine-preventable diseases”, Tobias concluded
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