Manila: The Department of Health on Thursday clarified that it will not impose penalties on parents who choose not to vaccinate their children, emphasizing that proper education remains the government's approach to increasing immunization coverage. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stated that the agency's priority is to inform and educate parents about the benefits of vaccines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Herbosa stressed the importance of informing and educating parents, reiterating that no penalties will be imposed on those who opt against vaccinating their children. In a video posted on the DOH's official social media accounts, Herbosa said, 'Kailangan i-inform at i-educate ang mga magulang tungkol sa benepisyo ng mga bakuna. So inuulit natin, wala po tayong i-impose na penalty.'

He further clarified that penalizing parents is not part of the DOH's policy. Herbosa emphasized respect for human rights and the beliefs of parents regarding vaccination choices. He acknowledged that some children have underlying medical conditions that prevent them from being eligible for certain vaccines.

The statement came after news of DOH Undersecretary Emmie Liza Chiong's proposal to the House Committee on Health to consider minor penalties for parents or caregivers who neglect to protect their children from vaccine-preventable diseases. Chiong suggested this during discussions on bills related to establishing a mandatory immunization program and expanding comprehensive maternal healthcare, which includes immunization.

DOH Immunization Program Manager Carmina Vera reported that in 2025, only 64.27 percent or around 1.5 million children were fully immunized, falling significantly short of the 95 percent national target.