THE Department of Health (DOH)–Ilocos Region formally recognized the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte for becoming the first province in the Philippines to achieve 95.7% Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage rate or 22,039 female aged 9-14 years old for the first dose, a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to prevent cervical cancer and protect the health of future generations.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco conferred the recognition to Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, honoring the province’s outstanding commitment to immunization, disease prevention, and women’s health on June 23, 2026.
HPV is a common viral infection that can cause cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. Achieving high vaccination coverage among eligible girls is a critical step toward eliminating cervical cancer as a public health concern and ensuring long-term protection for women and girls.
“This achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished when local governments, health workers, schools, and communities unite behind a shared public health goal, ” Sydiongco stated.
“Ilocos Norte has set a remarkable example for the entire country by achieving the target coverage needed to provide strong protection against HPV-related diseases.”
The milestone was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, the Provincial Health Office, and the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon, led by ASEC. Ana Carmela Ventura-Remigio, the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, local government units, schools, healthcare workers, parents, and community partners.
Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos expressed her appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the province’s success.
“We are deeply grateful to the DOH for this recognition and for its continued partnership in advancing public health in our province,” Governor Araneta-Marcos said.
“This achievement is a testament to all who worked together to ensure that every eligible girl is protected. Their commitment has made a lasting investment in the health and future of the young women of Ilocos Norte.”
The recognition highlights the effectiveness of Ilocos Norte’s immunization program and underscores the importance of sustained community engagement, health education, and multisectoral collaboration in expanding vaccine coverage and preventing disease.
As the first province in the country to attain this milestone, Ilocos Norte serves as an inspiration to other local government units to strengthen immunization programs and advance preventive healthcare for all.
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