Vaccines remain one of the most powerful tools in protecting Filipinos from deadly diseases, experts emphasized at the 26th Philippine National Immunization Conference (PNIC) in Pampanga.
Dr. Josefina Carlos, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, reminded the public that immunization is both a health and economic investment: “If we don’t get sick, we are able to save. Immunization becomes an investment for our health.”
At a media roundtable led by the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV), experts highlighted the proven safety and effectiveness of vaccines, including new options for shingles and dengue. The event, themed “Advancing Better Immunization for Every Filipino,” brought together top infectious disease and public health experts for two days of discussions.
Global data show the impact of vaccines: the World Health Organization estimates that vaccination saves six lives every minute, totaling 154 million lives in the past 50 years—mostly children.
The Philippines has long benefited from strong immunization programs, eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus and ending two polio outbreaks. However, misinformation in recent years has shaken public trust. Encouragingly, early reports show vaccine acceptance is improving.
PFV president Dr. Rose Capeding said the group’s mission is to make vaccination a normal part of every Filipino’s life—from infancy to old age. PFV is also a member of the WHO’s Vaccine Safety Net, recognized for providing credible, science-based information.
One major concern raised was shingles, a painful viral infection that affects many older adults and can lead to long-term nerve pain. Doctors stressed that shingles vaccination, already available in the Philippines, can prevent the disease and its complications.
Experts also tackled dengue, which remains a pressing threat. From January to September 2025, the Philippines recorded 234,855 dengue cases and 912 deaths. New monitoring data show over 8,000 cases in the first half of October alone.
Takeda’s dengue vaccine, TAK-003, which protects against all four dengue strains, has been prequalified by the WHO and approved in 41 countries. Seven-year data from the global TIDES trial confirm its long-term safety and sustained protection. TAK-003 is currently under review by the Philippine FDA.
PFV executive director Dr. Lulu Bravo warned that dengue could spark the next pandemic, noting its rapid global spread beyond tropical countries.
As the conference concluded, PFV called on the public—including media—to help fight misinformation and champion vaccination.
“We should all work together to become vaccine warriors,” Dr. Bravo urged.
