THE vaccination center in San Simon town instantly turned into a children's party venue on Wednesday, February 23, for the launching of the vaccination rollout for kids aged five to 11.
Various balloon decorations, cartoon character mascots, photobooth, and popcorn and cotton candy stands were set up in the area, while colorful candies and toys were given away to children who received vaccines during the first day of pediatric vaccine rollout.
Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr., who also wore a costume, said the venue arrangement is aimed at easing the fear and worry of children set to receive the vaccines while also encouraging others to get jabbed.
"Para maaliw sila habang naghihintay at mawala iyong focus nila sa bakuna. Iisipin lang nila para lang silang nasa children's party tapos pag-uwi, may take home pa na candies at laruan," he said.
Punsalan said they targeted to inoculate around 500 children on the first day alone, and around 2,000 children in the whole of San Simon.
He said the target to swiftly vaccinate children is in preparation for the re-opening of in-person of classes which already partially started this week.
"Para handa at protektado ang mga bata na papasok na ulit sa mga eskwelahan ngayon kaya hinihikayat namin ang mga magulang rin na dalhin na ang mga bata sa vaccination center agad," Punsalan said.