BAGUIO CITY—The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cordillera recognizes the crucial role of the local government units (LGUs) in the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine roadmap to combat the prevailing pandemic in the region.
“Our LGUs play a vital role in the COVID-19 response. As frontliners, they are in the position to identify the priority sectors for the planned vaccination program,” said Officer-in-charge Regional Director, Araceli San Jose on Friday.
The LGUs are in-charge in the preparation of the master list of residents who will be prioritized for vaccination; identification and preparation of vaccination sites and other logistics; and provision of vaccinators who will facilitate the immunization program in their respective localities.
Adding, “The existing Emergency Operation Centers (EOC) in LGUs should be re-organized to include a dedicated arm for vaccine concerns. The mobilization of Barangay personnel and other volunteers is encouraged for the upcoming actual vaccination especially for ensuring safety and maintaining minimum public health standards”.
RD San Jose underscored that the program as a national endeavor, shall utilize a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in order to harmonize efforts for the successful and effective implementation of the National Vaccination Program.
“The LGU vaccination plan should be in compliance to the Department of Health (DOH) guidelines and in coordination with the respective DOH centers for Health Development and Provincial/City/Municipal Health Offices,” she said.
She said that LGUs should closely coordinate with the Regional or Local DOH offices and refer to guidelines or issuances by the DOH and the National Task Force against COVID-19 particularly the vaccine cluster to ensure alignment of local actions with national actions and directives.
“Our LGUs are also enjoined to coordinate with the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection for support,” she said. ###(Pamela Mariz Geminiano/DILG-CAR)
