Manila, April 30 -- The city government has commenced its observance of World Immunization Week by initiating a city-wide inoculation drive targeting children aged nine to 14 years old across its 80 barangays.

During the launch Wednesday of the vaccination program in Barangay Lapasan, City Health Officer Rachel Dilla highlighted the collaborative effort with the Department of Health to provide free routine immunization vaccines to children.

"Vaccination stands as a highly cost-effective public health intervention, playing a crucial role in preventing the widespread transmission of diseases within the population," Dr. Dilla said.

Barangay Lapasan, one of the city's most populous areas, served as the initial site for the campaign, with b...