Provincial kick-off set in Tboli on April 23
South Cotabato, Philippines—South Cotabato is set to join the global celebration of World Immunization Week with a provincial kick-off event in the municipality of Tboli on April 23, 2025, aiming to raise public awareness on the importance of vaccines in protecting lives across all stages.
Led by the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO), the event marks the beginning of intensified efforts to boost vaccination rates in the province, especially among vulnerable groups.
Hans Eldon Serame, Health Education and Promotions Officer II, emphasized that vaccines are one of the most effective tools in preventing diseases and saving lives.
“There is a vaccine for every disease—from pregnant women, children below five years old, girls aged nine, women, and senior citizens. We have the means to protect every age group,” Serame said.
The provincial government is targeting a 95% vaccination coverage among children below five years old this year, a significant increase from the 65% coverage recorded in 2024.
Serame highlighted that while the province has made progress in health services, there’s still a need to reach underserved communities and combat vaccine hesitancy.
“Vaccines work. They are safe, effective, and essential for a healthier South Cotabato,” he added.
World Immunization Week, observed every last week of April, is a global initiative that aims to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease. Themed “Humanly Possible: Saving Lives through Immunization,” this year’s observance underscores the role of vaccination in building healthier futures.
The kick-off event in Tboli will feature free vaccination services, health education activities, and community mobilization efforts to ensure that no child or individual is left behind in the province’s immunization campaign.
