Tagbilaran City rolls out free immunization drive for students

THE City Government of Tagbilaran officially launched its School-Based Immunization Program on November 18, 2025 at the City Hall Atrium with a ceremonial vaccination of selected students.

The activity was led by City Health Officer Dr. Jeia Pondoc, Dr. Van Phillip Baton of the Provincial Department of Health Office, and Ms. Machiavillia Caliao of the Provincial Health Office.

The ceremonial vaccination featured the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, Tetanus-Diphtheria (TD) vaccine, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

The HPV vaccine was administered to female Grade 4 students to protect against cervical cancer, while students in Grades 1 and 7 received vaccines against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, and diphtheria.

The ceremonial event marks the official launch, while actual immunization will be conducted in all public schools across Tagbilaran City in the coming days, ensuring that every eligible student receives proper protection.

The program is a collaborative effort among the City Government of Tagbilaran, Department of Health, Department of Education, and Provincial Government of Bohol, as part of the national initiative to strengthen immunization coverage among children.

Mayor Jane Yap emphasized the critical role of vaccination in protecting children from preventable diseases and in building a healthier future for the community.

She highlighted that the program is not only a major relief for parents, who would otherwise spend up to ₱4,000 per child for the MR and TD vaccines, but also a strategic step in preventing outbreaks of measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, and cervical cancer.

She assured parents that all vaccines in public schools are completely free and hassle-free, reinforcing the city’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of Tagbilaran’s youth.

The City Government of Tagbilaran encourages parents to ensure their children participate in the program, which is a crucial step in safeguarding their health and securing a stronger, disease-free future for the next generation.