Philippines Launches Ligtas Tigdas Measles Vaccinations in 2026

With measles cases increasing by about 29% in 2025, the Republic of the Philippines Department of Health (DOH) plans to launch a measles vaccination campaign for children aged 6 months to 5 years, called 'Ligtas Tigdas', in 2026.

This vaccination campaign is essential to protect residents and visitors in 2026, as the Department of Tourism says the Philippines is ready for increased tourism.

According to the Philippine News Agency reporting on December 20, 2025, the first phase of the measles vaccination campaign will take place in Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region from January 19 to February 13, 2026.

The second phase will extend to Luzon and Visayas in June.

In the Philippines, the DOH recorded 4,843 measles-rubella cases in 2025. This data is 29% higher than the 3,748 cases logged in 2024.

In 2025, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration reported the circulation of counterfeit Speeda human rabies vaccine. This product may not be effective in the prevention of rabies and could contain harmful ingredients.

Additionally, the U.S. CDC included the Philippines in Dengue and Measles Travel Health Notices in 2025.