The Western Pacific Region has achieved a remarkable milestone: 25 years of being polio-free. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration, science, and community engagement. However, the battle against polio is far from over. The recent outbreaks in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia serve as a stark reminder that viruses do not respect borders. The Regional Commission for the Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication in the Western Pacific (RCC) met in Tokyo to assess the progress of each country and outline the necessary actions to maintain high population immunity, strengthen surveillance, and ensure rapid response capacity. The meeting also highlighted the risks posed by declining global development assistance, competing health priorities, and pandemic-related fatigue, which can weaken vigilance. The human face of the fight was brought to the forefront by Dr. Nimfa Putong, a physician and polio survivor from the Philippines, who emphasized the importance of continued dedication and compassion to protect every child from the devastating effects of polio. The meeting also recognized the decades-long commitment of Rotary International and other civil society partners, whose advocacy alongside governments and donors is vital to ensuring that immunization reaches every community. As the global eradication effort moves closer to its final goal, the Western Pacific's experience serves as both a source of inspiration and a reminder that no region is truly safe until the virus is eradicated everywhere.
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