VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — The City Health Office (CHO) is bringing free vaccines to
public school learners throughout October under its monthlong Bakuna Eskwela campaign to
protect children against measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Running from October 1 to 31, the school-based immunization campaign supports the national
government’s preventive healthcare efforts by bringing recommended vaccines closer to eligible
learners and reducing barriers to immunization.
City Mayor Amie G. Galario and Vice Mayor Greizl Galario-Fernandez support the initiative as
part of the local government’s efforts to expand access to essential health services and protect
children from vaccine-preventable diseases.

“Under the campaign, Grade 1 learners are targeted for measles-rubella vaccination, while Grade
7 learners are eligible for tetanus-diphtheria vaccination. Female learners in Grade 4 aged 9 to 14
are also among the target recipients of the HPV vaccine, which helps prevent infections that can
lead to cervical cancer,” the mayor said.
She said CHO nurses and midwives are visiting public schools across barangays throughout
October to administer vaccines, enabling students to receive preventive healthcare at school
without traveling to health facilities.
Galario-Fernandez urged parents and guardians to provide informed consent and allow their
children to participate, emphasizing that vaccination protects individual learners from serious
illnesses, reduces disease transmission, and safeguards the broader community.
To address misinformation, the CHO also advises families to verify health-related claims
circulating online and consult healthcare professionals, the CHO, the Department of Health
(DOH), school officials, and other legitimate health authorities for accurate information on
vaccine safety, benefits, and eligibility.
City Health Officer Dr. Michael Escalante said vaccines provided under Bakuna Eskwela are
free, safe, effective, and quality-assured for targeted students.
“Offering them at no cost helps remove financial barriers and expands access to recommended
protection against vaccine-preventable diseases,” Escalante said.
He said parents and guardians can coordinate with teachers, school officials, and healthcare
workers to confirm their children’s eligibility, complete the required consent procedures, and
ensure they receive the appropriate vaccines for their age and grade level.
“As the campaign continues across Valencia City, the CHO aims to increase immunization
coverage and close gaps in protection among eligible learners. Wider vaccination coverage can
help prevent outbreaks and promote healthier schools and communities,” Escalante said.
(JNCL/PIA-10/Bukidnon)