BIÑAN CITY, Laguna – The local government unit (LGU) launched two pediatric vaccination sites for children aged 5–11 years on Friday (Feb. 18).
Deputy Speaker and Biñan Lone District Rep. Len Alonte and Mayor Arman Dimaguila led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the pediatric vaccination site at Southwoods Mall.
To encourage kids to brave the jab, the safari-themed vaccination site features live entertainment by mascots and magicians, as well as free toys, snacks, and hygiene essentials.
Another vaccination site was launched at the Historic Alberto Mansion – the 200-year-old ancestral house of Teodora Alonso, mother of Dr. Jose Rizal.
City Health Office Disease Surveillance Officer Hans Kristian O. Lorenzana told the Manila Bulletin that many residents are signing up their children for vaccination against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Lea Laureine S. Ramos was one of the parents who had her kids vaccinated at the Historic Alberto Mansion. As a public hospital nurse, Ramos knows how important it is for her three children, aged 11, 9, and 7 years to get the jab.
"First, I want them to be protected from COVID-19. Second, protecting them also means protecting others around us," Ramos told the Manila Bulletin.
"They were a bit anxious at first because of the needle. But they did well during the procedure. None of them cried," she shared.
The city government is set to open a third pediatric vaccination site on Feb. 23.