The Makati City government has launched a measles catch-up vaccination campaign aimed at inoculating nearly 10,000 children aged 9 to 59 months across all barangays within a month.
“While Makati has maintained zero measles prevalence rates since 2024, we remain vigilant in protecting our youngest Makatizens. This initiative reflects the city’s data-driven approach to closing immunity gaps and preventing potential outbreaks,” said Mayor Abigail Binay.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), Metro Manila experienced a 133-percent increase in measles cases from January 1 to February 15, 2025, compared to the same period the previous year.
Mayor Binay explained that although Makati is not included among the DOH’s six priority areas of concern—which are Mandaluyong, Quezon City, Manila, Caloocan, Taguig, and Las Piñas—the city is proactively participating in this nationwide initiative to maintain its strong health record.
The vaccination drive specifically targets children who have not yet received two doses of the measles vaccine, which is essential for full protection against the disease.
This campaign complements Makati’s regular year-round vaccination programs, which have significantly contributed to the city’s high immunization rates. Makati City has a strong track record of successful immunization campaigns.
Recently, the city conducted a School-Based Immunization (SBI) program from October 11 to November 27, 2024, administering Measles-Rubella (MR) and Tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccines to Grade 1 and Grade 7 students.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines were also administered to female Grade 4 students in public schools to protect against cervical cancer.
“Our vaccination drives in Makati’s public schools have benefited both residents and non-residents, covering students from neighboring cities like Manila, Pasay, and Taguig. We aim to provide 100 percent protection to all our students, regardless of their place of residence,” said Binay.
During the Measles-Rubella and Oral Polio Vaccine Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-OPV-SIA) conducted from May 2 to June 15, 2023, Makati City exceeded DOH targets by vaccinating 47,574 children (100.22 percent) aged 9 to 59 months with the Measles-Rubella vaccine, and 36,506 children (95.52 percent) aged 0 to 59 months with the Polio vaccine.
In addition to a house-to-house approach for the measles campaign, Mayor Binay announced that all 18 health centers across Makati would serve as fixed vaccination posts where parents can bring their children to receive the vaccine.
“No child in Makati should suffer from a preventable disease. I urge all parents and guardians to welcome our health workers when they visit your homes and to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure your children receive this crucial protection,” the mayor emphasized.
Binay reiterated that through ongoing investments in preventive healthcare measures, the city is committed to ensuring a healthier and more promising future for the next generation.