12/08/2026
Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) Opening Ceremony
Bayawan City officially launched the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) through an opening ceremony held at 9:00 A.M. today at the Barangay Poblacion Gymnasium, bringing together local leaders, health workers, partner agencies, parents, and children in a united commitment to protect every eligible child against measles and rubella.
In her message, Dr. Fiah Leonor B. Cerrado, City Health Officer II, emphasized that the MR-SIA aims to close existing immunization gaps brought about by missed or delayed childhood vaccinations, ensuring that no child is left vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.
Representing the CHO Nursing Services Office, Nurse VI Romeo V. Lalas shared that the DOH has identified an estimated 15% immunization gap, which the MR-SIA seeks to address. He also recognized the invaluable contributions of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) as frontliners in community health and encouraged them with the government's continuing efforts to gradually increase their monthly honorarium in the coming years.
City Mayor John T. Raymond, Jr. personally appealed to all parents, especially mothers, to have their children vaccinated, stressing that immunization is one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illnesses and safeguard every child's future.
Also expressing full support was Ms. Marchita P. Tuale, City Social Welfare and Development Officer, who affirmed the CSWDO's commitment not only to the MR-SIA but also to other health programs, highlighting that child health is a vital component of early childhood development.
The ceremony was likewise graced by Dr. Neo Benjamin C. Calanza (City Health Officer I), together with NIR Health Education and Promotion Officers (HEPOs), Ms. Cherwin Ontal ( NIR Development Management Officer), and other NIR program coordinators.
Attended by CHO field personnel, section heads, supervisors, Barangay Health Workers, parents, and children, the activity also featured an MR-SIA service simulation, including the ideal vaccination set-up, a ceremonial measles-rubella vaccination, and Vitamin A supplementation, demonstrating the actual services that will be provided throughout the campaign.
Kudos to Ms. Julie Yap, LVOC Coordinator, and her team at the Bayawan City LVOC (Local Vaccination Operations Center), as well as to the Human Resource for Health local team for a successful MR-SIA launching ceremony.
