Baguio: The City Veterinary and Agriculture Office (CVAO) is actively conducting an anti-rabies vaccination caravan aimed at vaccinating over 40,000 dogs and cats in an effort to curb the spread of rabies. Dr. Silardo Bested, head of the CVAO, highlighted the importance of this initiative during a media forum.
According to Philippines News Agency, the caravan involves annual visits to various barangays to ensure that pets receive their mandatory anti-rabies vaccines, thereby protecting both pet owners and the general public. This ongoing effort supports the Department of Health’s (DOH) objective of achieving a rabies-free Philippines by 2030. The city has allocated funds for these vaccinations as part of its long-standing commitment to public health and safety.
Data from the Baguio City Health Services Office (CHSO) indicates that there have been no rabies-related deaths among humans who received vaccinations following animal bites. In 2025, 7,099 residents and transients were vaccinated against rabies, compared to 8,186 in 2024, with the majority being city residents.
Dr. Bested also mentioned that the CVAO has intensified its animal impounding activities to remove stray animals from the streets. The city government enforces penalties on pet owners who allow their animals to roam freely, implementing mandatory caging and leashing, with daily fines for reclaiming impounded pets.
Dr. Jennifer Joyce Pira, Medical Officer IV of the DOH-Cordillera, shared at a health forum that the region recorded 96,769 animal bites in 2025, resulting in five deaths. She emphasized the need for public cooperation in achieving the zero rabies cases goal by 2030 through responsible pet ownership, animal registration, and vaccination.
While rabies is preventable with timely vaccination, it remains fatal if bites or saliva contact from infected animals are not addressed. Dr. Pira advised immediate washing of the wound with soap and water, followed by medical assessment and vaccination if necessary. She also acknowledged the collaboration between the Department of Agriculture, local government units, and the DOH in providing vaccines and medicines to prevent rabies infections.
