LOON, BOHOL — August 10, 2026. The Municipality of Loon formally launched the Ligtas Tigdas: Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) at the Loon Activity Center, marking another important step in the municipality’s continuing commitment to protect children and strengthen community health.
The launching brought together representatives from the Department of Health, Loon Rural Health Units 1 and 2, Barangay Health Stations, Barangay officials, Department of Education partners, health workers, parents, and other stakeholders—all united by one important mission: to protect Loon’s children from measles and rubella.
During his inspirational message, Municipal Mayor Cesar Tomas M. Lopez, M.D. warmly greeted the participating health professionals, DOH representatives, barangay officials, education partners, parents, and everyone who came together for the activity.
Mayor Lopez lauded the Loon Rural Health Unit and its health team for initiating the launching, emphasizing that the activity is a reflection of the strong teamwork and collaboration among different sectors of the community.
He underscored that the MR-SIA is more than simply an immunization campaign—it is a significant preventive health measure that invests in the future of Loon.
“Ang atong mga kabataan mao ang umaabot nga mga lungsoranon sa atong lungsod,” was the message behind the Mayor’s call for collective responsibility. Through vaccination, the municipality can help protect children today while building a healthier and more resilient community for tomorrow.
He also reminded everyone to take note of the vaccination schedules in their respective barangays and encouraged all sectors to continue working together in promoting the health and well-being of the people of Loon. He assured the community that the Office of the Municipal Mayor fully supports the MR-SIA and the continuing efforts of the local health sector.
KNOWING THE DISEASE, KNOWING THE PROTECTION
A comprehensive discussion on the Ligtas Tigdas campaign, including the when, where, who, and why of MR-SIA, was presented by Shannen Jaye O. Langcamon, RMT, MD, RHU 2 – Municipal Health Officer.
In her discussion, she explained in Bisaya the nature of measles (tigdas), including its common signs and symptoms and the importance of preventing its transmission, particularly among young children.
She also discussed what parents and guardians may expect following immunization. Like other vaccines, measles-rubella vaccination may cause mild and temporary reactions such as pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, fever, or general discomfort. These reactions are generally manageable and are part of the body’s immune response. Parents were reminded to observe their children after vaccination and to immediately seek appropriate medical attention if a child develops unusual or severe symptoms.
Most importantly, parents were encouraged to ask qualified health professionals whenever they have concerns about vaccination rather than relying on unverified information.
IMMUNIZATION TRIVIA: KNOW THE FACTS!
Adding an informative and engaging portion to the program was the Immunization Trivia led by Dr. Joseph S. Elarde, RMicro, MD, DOH-DTTB.
Among the important points raised was a common question about vaccines: Does vaccination guarantee 100% immunity?
The answer is that vaccines do not necessarily provide 100% protection against infection for every individual. However, vaccination significantly reduces the risk of disease and can greatly lessen the likelihood of severe illness and complications.
Dr. Elarde emphasized that being vaccinated does not mean a person can never be infected, but vaccination gives the body an important layer of protection and helps prepare the immune system to respond to the disease.
More importantly, when a sufficiently high proportion of the population is protected through vaccination, the spread of infectious diseases can be reduced. This community protection can help safeguard not only vaccinated children but also individuals who cannot be vaccinated because of certain medical conditions.
Mao kini ang dakong importansya sa immunization: dili lamang kita nagpanalipod sa atong kaugalingon, nagtabang usab kita sa pagpanalipod sa atong komunidad.
Vaccination helps prevent outbreaks, reduces the burden of disease, protects vulnerable members of society, and contributes to a healthier community.
THE CEREMONIAL VACCINATION
The highlight of the launching was the Ceremonial Vaccination, formally opened by Pacholo E. Alcantara, RN, DMO-IV.
In his message, Mr. Alcantara expressed his appreciation to the local government, health workers, stakeholders, and most especially the parents who continue to play a vital role in protecting their children.
He also emphasized the importance of being responsible consumers of information, especially in the age of social media.
Parents and community members were reminded not to be misled by misinformation or unverified claims about the MR-SIA. Instead, they were encouraged to verify information and consult legitimate health authorities and trained healthcare professionals whenever they have questions or concerns.
“Kung adunay impormasyon nga atong madawat gikan sa social media, ato kining i-verify ug pangutan-on ang tinuod nga authority.”
Our health workers are trained to provide reliable information and guidance on immunization.
When it comes to your child’s health, choose facts. Choose trusted sources. Choose protection.
ANG PAGPABAKUNA, PANALIPOD PARA SA KAUGMAON
In her closing remarks, Hon. Marie Hazel R. Saavedra, RN, highlighted the importance of prevention through the familiar principle:
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
She described the MR-SIA as another courageous and meaningful step toward protecting children and minimizing the burden of measles and rubella in the community.
She recognized the commitment of the RHU 1 and RHU 2, the local government leadership, Barangay officials, health workers, parents, and partner agencies who have entrusted their children to the care of the community’s health professionals.
She also expressed hope for the successful dissemination of accurate information and the achievement of the campaign’s 95% vaccination target, ultimately helping minimize morbidity and mortality associated with vaccine-preventable diseases.
ATONG TUMONG: LIGTAS NGA CHIKITING, LIGTAS NGA LOON!
The MR-SIA Launching serves as a reminder that protecting children is a shared responsibility.
To all parents and guardians of children 6–59 months old, please bring your children to the nearest temporary or permanent vaccination site in your area and coordinate with your Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Health Stations, or the Loon Rural Health Units for the vaccination schedule.
Because every child deserves the chance to grow healthy, protected, and ready to build the future of Loon.
Bakuna ug Proteksyon ni Baby, Atong Responsibilidad!