Iloilo: Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. on Wednesday emphasized the importance of supporting the national government's measles-rubella immunization program, stating that its effectiveness is well-supported by data. In a press conference, Defensor highlighted the provincial government's proactive stance in the vaccination campaign, which aligns with its commitments to the World Health Organization and other institutional partners.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Iloilo province has set an ambitious target to vaccinate 172,360 children aged between 6 to 59 months from August 10 to 28. As of August 11, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office has reported that 24,503 children, equivalent to 14.22 percent of the target, have received vaccinations against measles and rubella.

The campaign has seen significant progress in 10 municipalities, including Passi City, Miag-ao, New Lucena, Barotac Viejo, Pototan, Barotac Nuevo, Anilao, Alimodian, Balasan, and San Dionisio, which are on track to meet the 17 percent target for the second day. Parents and guardians are urged to bring their children to the nearest health center for vaccination and Vitamin A supplementation.

Governor Defensor also addressed concerns regarding the target figures for the immunization activity, noting that they are based on projections rather than actual figures. He reassured the public of the program's effectiveness, stating, "Vaccination is our frontline strategy. Our health program, first and foremost, is preventive. Vaccination is 'hulog ng langit (heaven-sent),' and should not be demonized."

Despite the challenges, Defensor remains optimistic about the campaign's progress and hopes to bring any concerns to the national level for broader discussion, emphasizing the aggressive nature of the program and its critical role in public health.