March 27, 2025: The Department of Health's (DOH) XII, in collaboration with UNICEF Philippines and RELIEF International, has launched the Regional Immunization Coalition to address challenges in vaccine implementation and achieve the national target of 95% immunization coverage among children.
The coalition aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen public health initiatives and accelerate routine immunization programs, reinforcing the government's commitment to disease prevention and universal healthcare.
During a recent steering committee meeting, DOH XII-Center for Health and Development (CHD) and UNICEF Philippines outlined the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the coalition. The TOR defines the roles and responsibilities of partner organizations, including: policy development by aligning local immunization strategies with national health priorities; monitoring and evaluation by ensuring accurate data collection and tracking immunization rates; advocacy and community engagement by conducting awareness campaigns to combat vaccine hesitancy; and resource mobilization by securing funding and logistical support for vaccine distribution.
“The TOR serves as our roadmap to ensure a coordinated and effective immunization strategy, especially in hard-to-reach areas,” said Dr. Edvir Jane Montañer, DOH XII Immunization Program Manager.
Representing the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII at the meeting were Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE; LGCDD Assistant Division Chief LGOO VI Mary Ann Ridao-Traspe; and Regional Focal Person LGOO V Cristy Jane A. Buenaflor.
Due to vaccine hesitancy, logistical barriers, and the lingering effects of past health crises, the coalition formed in response to declining immunization rates. DOH XII emphasized the urgency of routine immunization in preventing life-threatening diseases such as measles, polio, and diphtheria. UNICEF reported that the Philippines’ immunization coverage fell to 68% in 2023, far below the WHO-recommended 95% for herd immunity.
SRIC Steering Committee members committed to working closely with local government units (LGUs) to enhance immunization programs through community-based vaccination drives, improved cold-chain logistics, and targeted public awareness campaigns.
With SRIC in place, stakeholders remain optimistic that Region XII—and the entire country—can regain momentum in achieving universal vaccine coverage and strengthening public health.
