Davao Oriental has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the recently concluded MR-OPV Supplemental Immunization Activity dubbed “Chikiting Ligtas”, showcasing an outstanding achievement in public health.
The province topped the Davao Region, securing an impressive 98.84% accomplishment rate in measles-rubella (MR) immunization and a commendable 96.26% completion rate in oral polio vaccine (OPV) vaccination. This resounding success positions Davao Oriental as the leading province in the region, with recognition reaching the national level.
The exceptional performances of the province’s local government units (LGUs) were instrumental in this remarkable feat. Caraga and Manay municipalities secured the first and second positions, respectively, among all LGUs in the region. Furthermore, Banaybanay and Baganga municipalities demonstrated their commitment by ranking fourth and fifth, respectively, in the region, adding to Davao Oriental’s impressive portfolio of achievements. Additionally, the City of Mati, Lupon and Cateel also surpassed the 90% mark in MR immunization.
This triumph can be attributed to the comprehensive strategies, meticulous planning, and efficient execution employed by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and Davao Oriental’s City/Municipal Health Offices (C/MHOs), PDOHO headed by Dr. Gracita Berguia, and health authorities, in collaboration with the barangays through their Punong Barangays, barangay health workers, and dedicated volunteers, spared no effort in mobilizing communities, conducting extensive information campaigns, and actively engaging families to emphasize the significance of immunization.
Dr. Reden V. Bersaldo, Provincial Health Officer II, expressed profound gratitude to the hardworking health workers on the ground and their supportive local chief executives, whose unwavering commitment and tireless efforts were pivotal in the campaign’s success. Their dedication and diligence led to the attainment of high immunization coverage rates, ensuring the health and well-being of Davao Oriental’s residents, particularly its children.
Dr. Bersaldo also extended heartfelt appreciation to the provincial government of Davao Oriental, under the leadership of Governor Corazon T. Nunez-Malanyaon, for their unwavering support throughout the MR-OPV Supplemental Immunization Activity. Governor Nunez-Malanyaon’s administration demonstrated exemplary leadership, providing crucial resources, facilitating seamless implementation, and fostering effective stakeholder coordination.
With a robust immunization program handled by Ms. Darlene Sherill Fernandez, Provincial National Immunization Program Coordinator, and an exceptional healthcare workforce, Davao Oriental sets the bar high, inspiring other provinces and regions nationwide to intensify their immunization efforts and work towards a healthier future.
The achievements of Davao Oriental in the MR-OPV immunization campaign highlight the province’s dedication to protecting its population from vaccine-preventable diseases. As the province’s success resonates across the region and the nation, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts and strong leadership in achieving remarkable milestones in public health. By Rez Pann |Photos Courtesy of PHO-Davao Oriental
