TAGBILARAN City became the first in Region 7 and the entire Province of Bohol to launch the School-Based Immunization and Shield Against Cervical Cancer Program on October 1, 2024, at the City Hall Atrium.
This pioneering initiative, part of the Department of Health’s (DOH) national Bakuna-Eskwela Program, aims to vaccinate students in Grades 1, 4, and 7.
It is focused on reaching “zero-dose” children or students who have yet to receive crucial vaccinations.
As part of the launching activity, students in Grade 7 received the first of two doses of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer.
Meanwhile, students in Grades 1 and 4 were administered vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, and other life-threatening diseases.
This joint program, led by the City Government of Tagbilaran, DOH, Department of Education (DepEd), and the Provincial Government of Bohol, is part of a national effort to provide much-needed immunization for school children across the country.
City Health Officer Dr. Jeia Pondoc opened the event, stressing the importance of vaccination in safeguarding children’s health and ensuring a disease-free future for the community.
Dr. Van Phillip Baton, representing DOH Regional Director Jaime Bernadas, delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing the collaboration needed to reach the program’s goals.
In her message, Mayor Jane Yap thanked all partners for their dedication and collaboration. “The health and well-being of our children are a top priority. By ensuring they receive these critical vaccines, we are not only protecting them from preventable diseases but securing their future,” Mayor Yap said.
She also underscored that this initiative is a significant step toward achieving the city’s health goals and ensuring the long-term safety of its people.
Supportive messages were also shared by Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy of the Provincial Health Office on behalf of Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, City Local Government Operations Officer Juliet Olalo representing DILG Provincial Director Jerome Gonzales, Mr. Adson Calamba from the Provincial DepEd, Ms. Adeline Carmen Dagamac from the City DepEd, and Ms. Melinda Pausanos, President of the Philippine Nurses Association Bohol Chapter.
Tagbilaran City’s leadership in launching this program highlights its proactive stance in public health and its commitment to ensuring that children receive the immunization they need.
By being the first in the region, the city sets a benchmark in health care services, serving as an example for other local governments to follow.
