Muslim-majority Bangsamoro restarts anti-polio drive

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA (AA) – The Bangsamoro autonomous region in southern Philippines restarted on Monday the anti-polio campaign that had been suspended in March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The campaign, which will run till Aug. 20, is expected to administer anti-polio vaccine to at least 839,677 children, according to a statement by Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao's Ministry of Health.

The drive will be conducted in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi provinces.

“We are doing this campaign for the sake of our children, we cannot allow them to be exposed to many health risks while facing a health crisis,” Health Minister Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan said.

Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim assured that the region's "overall healthcare is protected and competent.”

A total of 402 virus cases have been registered in Bangsamoro to date, including seven deaths and 120 recoveries.