Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) will initiate its intensified vaccination campaign against measles (tigdas) and rubella (tigdas hangin) in January 2026 through the Ligtas-Tigdas Vaccination program. The campaign aims to curb the spread of these diseases among children.
According to Philippines News Agency, the first phase of the supplemental immunization activity will begin on January 19 and conclude on February 13, targeting Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region. The second phase will commence in June, focusing on Luzon and Visayas. The DOH, in collaboration with local government units, aims to enhance efforts to vaccinate children and prevent fatalities associated with measles and rubella.
The vaccination drive will specifically target children aged six months to five years. Measles is an airborne disease with the potential for severe complications and fatalities. In 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported at least 95,000 global measles deaths, predominantly among unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children under five years of age.
In the Philippines, the DOH recorded 4,843 cases of measles-rubella in 2025, with 73 percent of cases involving unvaccinated individuals. This marks a 29 percent increase from the 3,748 cases reported in 2024. The regions with the highest number of cases include the National Capital Region with 1,027 cases, the Bangsamoro Region with 768 cases, and Calabarzon with 505 cases.
The DOH also noted that vaccinations are available year-round at designated health centers across communities.
