Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Philippines | September 3, 2025–The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd)–South Cotabato, will roll out the School-Based Immunization (SBI) Program this October 2025, targeting learners across 438 public schools in the province.
According to Immunization Program Coordinator Genesis Navales the program will cover 16,272 Grade 1 learners, 9,342 female Grade 4 learners, and 20,277 Grade 7 learners, ensuring that more than 45,000 students will receive protection against preventable diseases.
“Parental support is vital in ensuring the success of the program. If children understand that vaccination is for their protection, they are more likely to cooperate,” Navales said.
Health and education officials emphasized the crucial role of parents in preparing their children for the activity.
“We are urging parents and guardians to explain to their children the importance of vaccines in protecting their children’s health to help reduce fear and hesitation among students,” Navales explained during the weekly radio program of IPHO over a local radio station here.
“They should have enough rest, sleep well, and eat a proper breakfast before the immunization,” Navales pointed out.
The immunization package includes Measles-Rubella (MR) and Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccines for Grade 1 and Grade 7 learners, while female Grade 4 students will receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. These vaccines are part of the Department of Health’s routine immunization program, which aims to safeguard children and adolescents from serious illnesses.
The School-Based Immunization Program highlights the provincial government’s strong commitment to improving public health and ensuring that every child in South Cotabato has access to preventive healthcare services.
