CAPIZ – The Municipality of President Roxas officially launched its School-Based Immunization (SBI) Program at President Roxas West Elementary School (ES), marking a significant step in strengthening public health initiatives for children in the community.
The event drew strong participation from parents, school staff, and health officials, reflecting broad community support for the program.
The Capiz Provincial Health Office (CPHO), led by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Alex Nolasco, underscored the importance of the initiative.
Nolasco emphasized that vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases, adding that community involvement is key to safeguarding children’s health.
A joint effort of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education (DepEd), the SBI program aims to protect school-aged children from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) such as measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, and human papillomavirus (HPV). By bringing vaccines directly to schools, the program ensures greater accessibility and convenience for both children and their families.
The CPHO expressed gratitude to Dr. Allien Ureta, school head of President Roxas West ES, for her leadership in organizing the launch. The office also commended the efforts of the Parent-Teacher Community Fund (PCF) team led by Municipal Health Officer Dr. Pilar Posadas.
Special recognition was likewise given to Sangguniang Bayan member Ma. Xandria P. Damson, chairperson of the committee on health, for her strong support of vaccination programs and health initiatives in the municipality.
According to the CPHO, health teams will visit schools across Capiz to administer vaccines and provide information to both students and parents on the benefits of immunization. The initiative not only seeks to protect children’s health but also aims to minimize class disruptions, ensure continuous learning, and strengthen the province’s resilience against communicable diseases.
“This program enhances public health and secures a healthier future for our children. We invite all members of the community to actively participate and encourage one another to support the School-Based Immunization Program,” the CPHO said./PN
