The Department of Health (DOH) clarified that parents who refuse to vaccinate their children will not face penalties, following remarks made during a congressional hearing that raised concerns.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the agency respects the rights and beliefs of parents, including medical reasons that may prevent some children from receiving vaccines.
Herbosa issued the clarification after comments made by DOH Undersecretary Emmie Chiong during a hearing at the House of Representatives. During the hearing, Chiong suggested that parents who intentionally refuse to protect their children from vaccine-preventable diseases could be held accountable.
The statement drew attention and questions about whether the government was planning to impose sanctions on parents who decline vaccination for their children.
Herbosa said the DOH has no intention of punishing parents. Instead, he emphasized that the agency’s role under existing law is to provide information and encourage families to understand the benefits of vaccination.
He explained that the government’s responsibility is to promote public health by educating parents and guardians about how vaccines help prevent serious diseases.
According to Herbosa, some children may also have medical conditions that make vaccination unsafe, which is another reason the DOH respects parental decisions in such cases.
The health chief stressed that the department’s approach focuses on communication and public awareness rather than enforcement.
The DOH continues to encourage parents to consult healthcare professionals and consider the protection vaccines provide against preventable illnesses.
Officials said the clarification aims to address concerns raised after the House hearing and to reaffirm that the department’s policy remains centered on information, guidance, and voluntary participation in immunization programs.
