Cavite Immunization Summit
On October 4, 2024, the Cavite Immunization Summit, spearheaded by the Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH CHD IV-A) in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO), took place at the Summit Ridge Hotel in Tagaytay City. The event brought together health leaders of city/municipal health offices of the province, government officials, and experts to discuss critical strategies to enhance the province’s immunization efforts.
The summit opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Nonie John I. Dalisay, Provincial Health Officer II, who emphasized the importance of working together to improve immunization coverage and ensure the well-being of Caviteños. Representing Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla, Provincial Administrator Alvin Mojica attended the event, underscoring the provincial government’s commitment to supporting health initiatives.
Dr. Leda M. Hernandez, Assistant Regional Director of DOH CHD IV-A, delivered the keynote speech, stressing the need to accelerate the National Immunization Program (NIP) to protect vulnerable populations. She commended the province for its proactive approach to health care.
The global perspective on immunization was provided by Dr. Namrata Bhatta from the World Health Organization (WHO), who presented the Global Immunization Situationer, offering insights into current global trends and challenges in vaccine distribution. This was followed by Mr. Devon Ray Pacial, Supervising Health Program Officer, who discussed the Philippine Immunization Situationer and the NIP Acceleration Plan aimed at addressing immunization gaps in the country.
Dr. Mark Nicholas O. Santos, Family Health Cluster Head of DOH CHD IV-A, presented the Regional Immunization Situationer, shedding light on Calabarzon’s progress and areas for improvement. Dr. Nonie John I. Dalisay also provided an update on Cavite’s provincial immunization status, highlighting ongoing efforts to meet targets.
Moreover, Mr. Christopher V. Bayle, Nurse V of DOH-CHD IV-A, discussed the Status and Involvement of the National Immunization Program under the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), emphasizing the role of governance in sustaining immunization efforts.
An important segment of the summit included plenary discussions on key topics such as governance and leadership, improving service delivery and reaching immunization targets, and the use of data for effective decision-making. Likewise, local government units (LGUs) of the City of Carmona, Tagaytay City, Mendez, and General Mariano Alvarez (GMA) shared their best practices in implementing successful immunization programs.
Among the local chief executives present were Mayor Dahlia Loyola of the City of Carmona, Mayor Lamberto Bambao of Ternate, Mayor Maricel Torres of GMA, Mayor Jasmin Maligaya-Bautista of Magallanes, and Rosario Vice Mayor Joanne Michelle Gonzales. Their attendance signified strong support for health initiatives in their respective municipalities.
The summit concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Nelson C. Soriano, Provincial Health Officer I, who expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration in achieving immunization goals for a healthier Cavite.— OPIO
