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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOH, UNICEF, Japan launch 'DigiVacc' to modernize immunization records in the Philippines

DOH, UNICEF, Japan launch 'DigiVacc' to modernize immunization records in the Philippines

New app to streamline vaccine records, support universal healthcare in the country

Published Jul 31, 2025 12:52 pm  |  Updated Jul 31, 2025 07:39 pm
DOH, UNICEF, and Japan launch DigiVacc at the Manila Hotel to revolutionize vaccine records and boost universal healthcare in the Philippines. (MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
DOH, UNICEF, and Japan launch DigiVacc at the Manila Hotel to revolutionize vaccine records and boost universal healthcare in the Philippines. (MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a significant step toward digital health transformation, the Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with UNICEF and with funding support from the Government of Japan, officially launched DigiVacc—a digital immunization platform designed to modernize how vaccination records are managed, tracked, and accessed across the Philippines.
The launch event, held at The Manila Hotel on July 30, brought together key health leaders and international partners in support of the country’s universal health care goals and its efforts to strengthen immunization data systems.
What is DigiVacc?
DigiVacc is a cutting-edge digital solution aimed at streamlining immunization programs by addressing persistent issues such as incomplete reporting, inefficient data collection, and difficulty tracking individuals who miss scheduled vaccinations.
It comprises a set of digital applications designed to replace children’s paper-based immunization records. DigiVacc aims to ensure that every child in the Philippines is “fully immunized and protected against diseases.”
New VaccTrace and VaccCheck apps aim to digitize immunization data and close gaps in vaccination coverage nationwide.(MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
New VaccTrace and VaccCheck apps aim to digitize immunization data and close gaps in vaccination coverage nationwide.(MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
The platform features two core applications: VaccTrace and VaccCheck.
VaccTrace is a real-time tracking tool used to monitor vaccine administration and identify defaulters. It is a provider-facing web service and mobile application that helps health workers digitally record immunization services and monitor coverage in their assigned areas.
It enables faster monitoring of vaccination status, automatic report generation, and automated text reminders for mobile caregivers. With offline functionality, health workers can record immunization services even in areas without internet access.
VaccCheck is a user-friendly platform that allows individuals to view and manage their vaccination records. It is a patient-facing mobile application that enables parents or caregivers to access and download their children’s immunization records anytime, anywhere.
With features like progress tracking, access to recommended vaccine schedules, and reminders for upcoming or missed vaccinations, caregivers can make informed decisions and ensure their children stay protected.
DigiVacc will be integrated with the national immunization registry, helping ensure accurate, timely, and secure vaccination data across public health facilities.
Supporting digital health and universal coverage
The DOH emphasized that the launch of DigiVacc aligns with the government’s broader health agenda and digital transformation goals.
The platform is also intended to strengthen the capacity of local governments to manage immunization programs more efficiently, especially in underserved and remote communities.
DigiVacc addresses long-standing challenges in immunization data management, including inefficiencies in paper-based records, incomplete or delayed reports, limited data from private health facilities, and difficulties in tracking missed immunization visits.
It also solves common problems such as lost vaccination records or data gaps caused by destroyed documents or staff turnover in health centers.
With near real-time access to data, DigiVacc enables more effective monitoring of immunization coverage, helping detect trends and bottlenecks to improve service delivery and policy decision-making.
Strong international collaboration
Representatives from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Embassy of Japan, UNICEF Philippines, and the DOH attended the launch.
DigiVacc rollout marks major digital health milestone, streamlining vaccine tracking and empowering Filipino caregivers.(MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
DigiVacc rollout marks major digital health milestone, streamlining vaccine tracking and empowering Filipino caregivers.(MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT / MANILA BULLETIN)
Dr. Aoki Fumiko, First Secretary and Health Attaché of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, reiterated Japan’s ongoing commitment to supporting digital innovations in Philippine healthcare.
“We are proud to support this project and hopeful that it will help close the gaps in traditional immunization data collection, leading to better planning at both local and national levels,” she said.
UNICEF Philippines Acting Representative Edgar Donoso Paz also underscored the importance of digital tools in improving immunization coverage.
“All children have a right to health… Vaccinated children perform better at school, with economic benefits that ripple across their communities and advance national welfare,” he said.
Media and stakeholder participation
The launch featured live demonstrations of the platform’s features, discussions on its practical applications, and dialogues with health leaders about how DigiVacc will transform immunization delivery nationwide.
DigiVacc will initially be deployed in 13 local government units (LGUs) across the country.

Related Tags

DigiVacc launch Philippines DOH UNICEF immunization platform digital vaccine record system VaccTrace VaccCheck apps Japan-funded health project digital transformation in Philippine healthcare universal healthcare vaccination Philippines
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