BANGUED, Abra (PIA) --Popular cartoon characters such as Dora, Hello Kitty, Ironman and other mascots entertained children at the provincial vaccination center in Holy Spirit Academy of Bangued   here  last February 21 as the   province rolled out the vaccination campaign for children 5-11 years old dubbed “Batang Abrenio: Bakunado, Protektado!”
  
The vaccination area was wholly re-decorated to become a child-friendly environment on vaccination day. Staff of the Provincial Health Office (PHO) also dressed-up in hilarious anime costumes as they posed for pictures with children age 5 to 11 after they received their jabs.
  
The first vaccinee for the age bracket in the province is nine years old Harlet Bryan Cabunoc. He said he  was willing to get vaccinated  for his protection and wellness.  
 
“Nagpabakuna na po ako para ‘di na magkasakit at malapit narin ang face-to-face classes naming,” Bryan said.
 
His mom, Jelly Belaras who accompanied Bryan in his vaccination, encouraged other parents who are doubtful on the efficacy of the vaccines.
 
“Wag na po kayong mag-alinlangan dahil mahalaga po ang pagbabakuna para sa kanila upang di magkasakit ng malala,” Belaras said.

Governor Joy Bernos lauded all parents who accompanied their children for their vaccination.
 
“I would like to thank the parents who are here for your support to our campaign in order to protect our loved ones from bearing COVID19.”  
 
She also asked for their cooperation to promote this vaccination campaign and convince other parents who are hesitant to submit their children for the free vaccines.
 
In his message, Department of Health-Cordillera Director Dr. Rio Magpangtay represented by Dr. Alexie Marrero recognized the full support of the provincial government in the vaccination campaign against COVID-19.
 
“Ikinagagalak kong malaman na buong-buo and suporta ng inyong gobernadora, ng inyong PHO at pamahalaang panlalawigan sa ginagawa nating pagbabakuna laban sa COVID19. Ganon din ang suporta ng mga lokal na pamahalaan, kapulisan, DILG at iba pang ahensiya ng national government at pribadong sector,” he stated.
 
The Rural Health Units are also rolling out the vaccination of 5-11 Abrenian children in the municipalities  to reach more of the population especially to remote areas of Abra. (JDP/CAGT – PIA CAR, Abra)