Marikina City, under leadership of its Mayor, Hon. Marcelino Teodoro, was put under the spotlight on the first day of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Days as operations started at the Marikina Sports Center Vaccination Site. The all-out inoculation drive runs from November 29, 2021 to December 1, 2021, with the goal of vaccinating 15 million Filipinos nationwide within three days.

In his welcome message, Mayor Teodoro thanked the national government, the private sector, as well as the volunteers, for their overwhelming support to the mass vaccination effort. Mayor Teodoro highlighted their shared objective of quickly vaccinating the working population, as well as the youth. Mayor Teodoro also acknowledged their efforts to address the logistical and operational challenges they encountered in organizing this important event.

In anticipation of the expected influx of vaccines, both residents and non-residents alike, Marikina City put in place measures to better manage the flow of people, such as requiring online pre-registration and delineating areas to accommodate walk-ins.

Secretary of Health Francisco Duque III commended the City for reaching a 105% vaccination rate for its target population, beyond the threshold rate for achieving herd immunity.

Sec. Duque stressed the importance of being vaccinated despite the decreased rate of infection in the NCR. With the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant known as “Omicron”, Sec. Duque advised those who are not yet vaccinated to get their shots as soon as possible and continue to observe the minimum public health standards. The Secretary cautioned everyone not to become complacent and remain vigilant to avoid another surge in infections.

Also present at the Marikina Sports Center Vaccination Site were DOH Assistant Secretary Elmer Punzalan, DOH-NCR Regional Director Gloria Balboa, and Department of the Interior and Local Government-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III. #