Iloilo City, Philippines – As the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Iloilo City is setting its sights on achieving herd immunity through an aggressive vaccination campaign aimed at protecting its residents and bringing life back to normal. With the city’s vaccination drive reaching new milestones, local officials are optimistic about reaching their target population and safeguarding public health in the coming months.

Progress in Vaccination Drive

Since the launch of its vaccination program, Iloilo City has made significant strides in vaccinating its residents, with over 80% of the target population already receiving their first dose. Local health authorities have been working tirelessly to ensure the availability of vaccines and smooth distribution channels, even reaching remote areas through mobile vaccination units.

"We’ve been focusing on ensuring that everyone, especially those in high-risk areas, gets vaccinated," said Mayor Jerry Treñas. “Achieving herd immunity is not just about getting numbers; it’s about protecting the community as a whole and preventing further COVID-19 outbreaks.”

Collaborative Effort

The success of the vaccination program is the result of strong cooperation between the city government, health departments, and local communities. The Department of Health (DOH) and various health organizations have supported the city’s vaccination efforts, while local volunteers have helped with outreach programs and public education on the importance of getting vaccinated.

Targeting Herd Immunity

Iloilo City aims to achieve herd immunity by the third quarter of 2025 by vaccinating at least 90% of its population. Officials are also focusing on booster shots to maintain immunity levels as new variants of the virus emerge. The goal is not only to protect the health of Iloilo residents but to create a safer environment for business, tourism, and education to flourish once again.

“Our ultimate goal is to make sure everyone is safe and protected. We’re moving closer to reopening fully and allowing our economy and communities to recover,” said City Health Officer Dr. Annabelle Yusay.

Public Support and Awareness

The city has launched various campaigns to encourage vaccination, addressing common myths and misconceptions about the vaccine. Public forums, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local influencers have helped spread awareness and foster trust in the vaccination process.

“We’re encouraging everyone to participate in this collective effort,” Dr. Yusay added. “Herd immunity is a community effort, and together, we can make a real difference.”

A Vision for the Future

As Iloilo City nears its herd immunity goal, the focus will shift toward ensuring the safe reopening of schools, businesses, and public spaces. City officials are also planning to implement additional health protocols for large gatherings and social events.

“We’re not just thinking about today,” Mayor Treñas concluded. “We’re planning for the long-term, to ensure that Iloilo remains resilient and that our people continue to thrive.”