COTABATO CITY (PIA) -- Some 500 program beneficiaries with special needs including their family members are getting their first or second dose of vaccine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at the Center for Handicapped here starting Monday, through the City Health Office (CHO) in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 12.

As part of the 3-day National Vaccination Days from Nov. 29 to December 1, the CHO said that DSWD 12 committed to set up one vaccination site for persons with disability and special needs, pediatric population aged 12-17 years, and their parents or guardians.

According to Center for Handicapped Instructor Saddam Delamata, parents of individuals with special needs have responded to their invitation for vaccination as they plan to implement limited face-to-face classes next year.

“Parents are more than willing to do it as they see the face-to-face class set-up is better for their children especially those in need of special attention and lessons,” Delamata said, who specializes in teaching deaf-mute students.

He added that all enrolled students under special programs were encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to lessen the risk of getting the said virus.

Meanwhile, City Health Promotion and Education Officer Membai Diar said that their vaccination team may stay for 3 days on the same site to reach or surpass the target.

Diar reminded the parents of pediatric population to bring valid ID or birth certificate, and medical or any proof of medication for those minors with comorbidities. Parents and guardians accompanying their children were also advised to present valid IDs during the vaccination day.  

With 59 vaccination cites, the city government of Cotabato has targeted more than 54,300 individuals for the 3-day vaccination campaign. (ACB/PIA Cotabato City)