Manila - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has sanctioned PHP 7.9 billion in funding for the Department of Health's (DOH) national immunization program, aimed at bolstering vaccination efforts across the Philippines, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced on Tuesday.

According to the Philippines News Agency, during a sectoral meeting at Malacañan Palace, the budget approval was confirmed, marking an increase from the previous year's PHP 6.4 billion allocation for the same purpose. Herbosa, in a press briefing, expressed satisfaction with the President's full budget approval, noting, "This is a first because usually, only 60 to 70 percent of our request is granted."

The DOH, in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd), is set to launch the 'Bakuna Eskuwela' campaign on October 7. This school-based immunization initiative targets students in Grades 1, 4, and 7 across all public schools nationwide, administering vaccines against diseases such as human papillomaviruses (HPV), measles, rubella, tetanus, and diphtheria. Participation in the vaccination program requires parental consent, and it is not mandatory, Herbosa clarified.

The campaign aims to tackle the declining immunization rates in the country, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic which significantly disrupted routine vaccinations. Currently, only 71 percent of Filipino children are fully immunized, falling short of the DOH’s 95 percent target. "With these two programs, the schools-based and big catch-up, we're hoping to increase that by the end of the year by December," Herbosa stated.

Herbosa also highlighted the need for improved vaccination data reporting, particularly from private pediatricians, to better assess and enhance vaccination coverage. He is advocating for the mandatory submission of vaccination data, which he believes could increase documented vaccination rates by 10 percent.

Furthermore, Herbosa called for a massive information campaign to correct misconceptions about vaccinations, particularly among the lower socioeconomic groups who are more susceptible to rumors. He urged the media's cooperation in this vital public health endeavor, emphasizing the importance of accurate information in overcoming vaccine apprehension.