Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Philippines | February 13, 2026—As of February 10, 6 am, a total of 34,354 children aged 0–59 months in South Cotabato remain unvaccinated against measles and rubella, prompting health authorities to heighten their call for parents to act immediately to protect their young children from preventable diseases.
Eldon Serame, Health Education Promotions Officer, said these unvaccinated children remain at risk.
“Measles spreads fast, and even one missed child can contribute to an outbreak,” Serame said.
While the Provincial Health Office reported encouraging progress — with 65,166 children, or about 65 percent, already vaccinated — officials stress that thousands of children are still vulnerable to measles and rubella, illnesses that can lead to serious complications, especially among infants and young children.
“Vaccination is free, safe, and available in our health centers. We strongly encourage parents not to wait until illness strikes—protect your children now,” Serame called out parents, care givers and guardians.
Last January 19, the first phase of the 2026 Measle-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), covering Mindanao and Bangsamoro region.
Meanwhile, health authorities emphasized that vaccines are safe, free, and available in health centers and designated vaccination sites across the province.
Parents and guardians are urged to bring their children for immunization as soon as possible to help close the gap and prevent potential outbreaks.
“Measles and rubella are preventable, yet they can cause serious complications among young children. Completing immunization is one of the simplest ways parents can safeguard their child’s future,” Serame explained.
The Provincial Health Office continues to intensify its information campaign and community outreach to ensure every eligible child is protected, reinforcing that timely vaccination is key to safeguarding the health and future of South Cotabato’s children.
“Immunization is not only about one child—it protects the whole community. The more children vaccinated, the safer our province becomes,” he added.
