SAN MARCELINO, Zambales — Public schools in San Marcelino have begun implementing the government’s Bakuna Eskwela program to protect students against vaccine-preventable diseases, with the municipal health office and education authorities leading the rollout.
The program was formally launched at Rabanes Elementary School on October 19, 2026, through the Municipal Health Office (MHO), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd)-San Marcelino District.
The vaccination drive is being carried out by personnel from the Rural Health Unit, Department of Health (DOH) Human Resources for Health, and Barangay Health Workers.
Under the program, Grade 1 and Grade 7 students will receive vaccines against measles-rubella and tetanus-diphtheria, while Grade 4 students will be given the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which helps protect against infections that can lead to cervical cancer.
Dr. Giselle emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and reducing the risk of outbreaks. She said the vaccines provided under the program are free, safe, and effective.
The MHO and DepEd-San Marcelino District are coordinating with parents, teachers, and community members to encourage participation and ensure that eligible students receive the recommended vaccines.
Mayor Elvis Ragadio Soria thanked parents for their cooperation and support, stressing the importance of community participation in protecting children’s health.
He also urged parents to allow their children to receive the recommended vaccines and support the municipal health office’s initiatives to expand immunization coverage among schoolchildren.
Through Bakuna Eskwela, the municipal government aims to strengthen preventive healthcare and help protect students from diseases that can be prevented through timely vaccination.