South Cotabato announces diverse venues for Measles-Rubella vaccination blitz

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato | January 12, 2026 — The Provincial Health Office (PHO) is taking a “community-first” approach for the upcoming Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), designating a wide array of non-traditional venues to ensure the vaccine is easily accessible to all families.

Eldon Serame, Health Education and Promotions Officer, confirmed that the campaign—running from January 19 to February 13, 2026—will move beyond hospital walls to reach children aged 6 to 59 months where they are most likely to be found.

To maximize coverage, the PHO is establishing “High-Yield” vaccination posts in high-traffic commercial and religious areas. This strategy aims to capture busy parents who may find it difficult to visit a clinic during traditional office hours.

“We will also put up posts in malls, markets, or high-yield areas, and churches. We will put up posts in those areas,” Serame stated, highlighting the push for visibility and convenience.

In addition to shopping centers and places of worship, the vaccination teams will maintain a strong presence at:

  • Public Markets: Catering to vendors and early-morning shoppers.

  • Malls & Plazas: Specifically targeting families during peak weekend hours.

  • Fixed Health Posts: Every Rural Health Unit (RHU), Municipal Health Office, and Barangay Health Center will serve as primary hubs.

For those who prefer a clinical setting, Serame assured that all public and major private medical facilities remain fully integrated into the program.

“We have fixed posts in our health centers, in our rural health units or municipal health offices, city health offices, and hospitals,” Serame explained.

By utilizing diverse venues like gymnasiums, parish halls, and malls, the provincial government hopes to reach its target of over 450,000 children across the region. Serame emphasized that no matter the venue, the service remains consistent:

“This is free, effective, and free of charge. We are just protecting our children,” he noted.

Parents are encouraged to look for the “Ligtas Tigdas” banners at these designated community hubs starting next week. No prior appointment is necessary for children within the 6-month to 5-year-old age bracket.

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