Mindanao: The Department of Health (DOH) announced that routine immunization efforts are ongoing nationwide to safeguard children against measles and rubella, as Mindanao and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) near the crucial 95-percent vaccination coverage goal necessary to prevent outbreaks. According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH's 'Ligtas Tigdas' situation report, which covers the period from January 19 to February 24, 2026, reveals that 82 percent, or 2,347,562 children aged 6 to 59 months in Mindanao and BARMM, have received vaccinations against measles and rubella. The data highlights that BARMM achieved the highest coverage at 91 percent, with 523,324 children vaccinated, leaving 53,906 still in need of protection. Caraga followed with 87 percent coverage, vaccinating 234,923 children, while 34,372 remain unvaccinated. Region 9, known as the Zamboanga Peninsula, reported 452,970 vaccinated children, achieving 86 percent coverage but leaving 70,736 unvaccinated. Simila rly, Region 10, or Northern Mindanao, also posted 86 percent coverage with 452,051 vaccinated and 71,568 unvaccinated. The Davao Region, or Region 11, showed the lowest coverage at 65 percent with 332,066 vaccinated children, leaving 180,943 unprotected. In Region 12, Soccsksargen, the vaccination rate reached 78 percent, with 352,228 children vaccinated and 99,022 unvaccinated. Despite these improvements, health authorities emphasize the significant risk of a measles outbreak if the 95-percent coverage target is not met, noting that approximately 510,547 children remain unprotected. The DOH has reaffirmed its commitment to continue routine immunization services throughout the country, even though Phase 1 of the Ligtas Tigdas campaign has concluded. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure their children complete the two-dose measles vaccine regimen and receive all recommended immunizations before their first birthday. The DOH also advises families to work closely with community health workers to sch edule their children's vaccinations and to visit the nearest health center for free immunization services.
