Manila, Philippines—Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) are calling for stronger local vaccination systems, larger budget allocations, and increased manpower to boost immunization coverage in their communities. This call was highlighted during a workshop organized by the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV).
“LGUs, as the middle person, can initiate activities that strengthen local vaccination programs,” said PFV Executive Director Dr. Lulu Bravo, emphasizing their vital role in bridging national policies with local implementation. “Our vaccination rates are still low. What we need now is equal empowerment; it’s not only the demand, it’s also the supply.”
The workshop, titled “From Data to Policy: Strengthening Vaccination Programs for Greater Impact,” highlighted gaps in local immunization programs and operational challenges, including delayed or near-expiry vaccine stocks and fragmented data reporting. To address these issues, LGU representatives recommended establishing a centralized reporting system and assigning dedicated immunization staff to ensure timely vaccine distribution and better coordination across local health programs.
These issues underscore concerns raised by Senate President Vicente Sotto III during recent budget deliberations. He warned, “There is a delay or insufficiency in vaccine deliveries, and some LGUs can afford to mitigate this and procure on their own. However, they cannot access the same wholesale price that is offered to DOH by the suppliers,” Sotto pressed the DOH to consider a centralized procurement system, highlighting the need for a more efficient process.
Keynote speaker Former Undersecretary Gloria Mercado emphasized the importance of strong local governance and a systems approach. “Power is in the LGU. You have to assert kung ano ang kailangan ninyo,” she said. “The heart of a successful vaccination program is not the DOH’s ability to translate policy into action, but the LGU’s capacity to implement programs that fit local needs.” She added that adopting a systems approach helps LGUs see the bigger picture and design solutions tailored to their communities.
To help LGUs turn insights into action, Government Relations and Policy Expert Norman Cualteros discussed how research and program data can guide effective policymaking, emphasizing clear framing of issues and the benefits of acting, or the risks of inaction. Complementing this, ALPAS Consultancy led sessions on stakeholder mapping and communication, encouraging LGUs to coordinate across cities and form a unified voice to advocate for stronger vaccination programs.
LGUs participating included Caloocan, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Makati, Mandaluyong, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, and Taguig, demonstrating a shared commitment to data-driven vaccination policies.
Building on the workshop’s success, PFV plans to replicate the initiative to empower more LGUs, strengthen local vaccination programs, and improve local health outcomes. The organization also called for sustained collaboration among LGUs and private stakeholders to ensure long-term immunization gains and more resilient local health systems.
