January 10, 2023 – Despite the pandemic, City Government of Balanga, through the City Health Office, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Education (DepEd), has not let up on its effort to protect its residents as today it conducted Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) immunization at Cupang Integrated School.

Eighty-two (82) female students, with consent from their parents, received the vaccine.

The program began with warm welcome remarks from Cupang Integrated School Principal Ms. Agnes Magdalera.

In his message, City Health Officer Dr. Mariano Antonio Banzon thanked the parents for giving their consent to vaccinate their children against HPV. The vaccine will give the female students added protection against diseases, including cervical cancer which is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world.

Before the vaccination, Dr. Erwin de Mesa, Obstetrician Gynecologist and Infectious Diseases Specialist, lectured on what HPV is and its effects on the human body.

On behalf of Mayor Francis S. Garcia, Committee Chairperson on Health Hon. Christian Manalaysay further highlighted the significance of the vaccine in upholding the quality of our health.

This was followed by the commitment exercise led by Ms. Ma. Belina Ibasco of DOH, Dr. Jose Amado Pingul of DepEd, Councilor Manalaysay and Dr. Banzon from the LGU, and Oscar Valdecañas from Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).

Parents and students also gave short dance performances to promote HPV vaccination.

By conducting the vaccination at school where most target beneficiaries are gathered, the HPV vaccination program became more effective.

The first round of vaccination will continue until January 13, 2023 at various schools within the city. There will be another schedule for the second round of the first dose. Meanwhile, the second dose will be conducted after 6 months at their respective schools.

For more information, you may visit the official Facebook page of Balanga City Health Office at: Balanga City Health Office