DOH launches intensified push to boost vaccination rates, combat hesitancy

The Department of Health has committed to ramping up efforts to increase vaccination coverage and tackle persistent hesitancy affecting immunization programs across the country. The announcement came during Monday's House committee on appropriations hearing on the DOH's proposed budget for the coming fiscal year. Representative Girlie Veloso raised the vaccination issue during the proceedings, prompting the health agency to detail its planned interventions. The DOH acknowledged that low vaccination uptake and public vaccine hesitancy pose ongoing challenges to achieving adequate population immunity. Officials did not immediately disclose specific targets or timelines for their intensified campaign, though the agency indicated it would enhance public communication strategies and community engagement efforts. The health department's renewed focus reflects concerns about vaccine coverage gaps that have emerged in recent years, with implications for disease prevention and public health readiness.