WORLD IMMUNIZATION WEEK: Princess Ann Duena avails herself of medical services for her baby on April 24, 2025. (Photo: PIA Samar)
Princess Ann Duena, 23, is a dedicated housewife and mother of two in Calbayog City. She recalls the anxieties of her first pregnancy, feeling terrified and confused by discussions about vaccinations and diseases. However, her fear turned into knowledge as she learned the importance of immunization.
“My four-year-old eldest child often got sick because he lacked vaccines, so when I had my five-month-old second child, I realized that he should have complete vaccinations for his health,” Princess declares, her voice steady and resolute.
She strongly supports health, especially in a country where many struggle to access healthcare.
As the Philippines prepares for World Immunization Week from April 24-30, 2025, the need for action is greater than ever, and she feels the pressure of this shared responsibility.
The Department of Health (DOH) in Eastern Visayas, together with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), is intensifying its efforts to increase vaccination rates across the country.
According to DOH Assistant Secretary Dr. Gloria J. Balboa, vaccination coverage rates in Eastern Visayas, including the province of Samar, vary across different areas. Some exceed 60 percent while others remain below 50 percent. This data indicates the need for continued efforts in vaccination outreach.
With over 31,000 people scheduled to receive vaccinations during the national launch, Princess acknowledges the importance of her role, both as a mother and as a supporter of families in need.
“It’s about protecting our future, our children,” she says, emphasizing her strong maternal instincts.
She began engaging with other mothers about vaccinations based on her own experiences. She became a valuable source of information, helping her friends and neighbors navigate the confusion between myths and facts regarding immunizations.
Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus, the WHO representative to the Philippines, emphasizes the difficulties many individuals face in underserved communities, stating that “every vaccinated child represents a step toward a safer and healthier future.”
Princess feels a strong sense of purpose knowing her children will receive essential vaccines such as the Pentavalent Vaccine, Oral Polio Vaccine, Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccination, among others.
“You should go to the health center to have your children vaccinated, and don’t be afraid if they experience mild sickness afterward — that’s normal. To prevent diseases, we need to protect our babies,” she said with relief and a convincing tone.
Rasel B. Tabon, a barangay health worker in Brgy. San Joaquin, Calbayog City, Samar actively promotes vaccination by encouraging residents to visit the health center for disease prevention and public health. They collaborated with the DOH and the City Health Officer of Calbayog to provide free vaccines to the community.
In uncertain times, one thing is clear—Princess is not just a housewife but a strong advocate for her children’s health. She focuses on their future and is determined to create a healthier tomorrow, showing that a mother’s love knows no limits. (AAC, PIA Samar)
