Sorsogon: The provincial government of Sorsogon has implemented intensified anti-dengue measures following a significant rise in cases reaching the epidemic threshold. Sorsogon Governor Edwin Hamor has issued Executive Order No. 129-2026, mandating municipal governments and communities to utilize all available resources to address the dengue threat.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU) reported 123 new dengue cases from August 16 to 22, bringing the total number of cases since January 1 to 1,426. This figure represents a 107-percent increase from the previous year. The executive order instructs local government units (LGUs) to reinforce the Department of Health's "4S Kontra Dengue" strategy, which includes Search and Destroy, Self-Protection, Seek Early Consultation, and Support Fogging/Spraying in identified hotspot areas.
The province is urging communities to consistently inspect their surroundings and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, particularly stagnant water in containers, drums, flower pots, discarded tires, bottles, cans, and gutters. Residents are encouraged to observe the "4 O'Clock Habit" by checking their surroundings at 4 p.m. and removing potential breeding sites. Protective measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants, applying insect repellent, and using mosquito nets are also advised.
Municipal mayors are responsible for overseeing the implementation of these measures, allocating necessary resources, and coordinating with the Provincial Health Office for technical assistance and disease surveillance. At the village level, officials are tasked with mobilizing health workers, volunteers, and residents for clean-up drives, search-and-destroy activities, health education, and ensuring timely reporting of suspected dengue cases to city or municipal health offices.
Government and private hospitals have been instructed to maintain and operationalize the dengue fast lane, established under Provincial Health Office Memorandum No. 2026-0043, to facilitate the timely assessment, treatment, referral, and admission of patients. The Provincial Health Office will continue its information and education campaign on dengue prevention and control through various platforms like radio and social media.
In the meantime, Naga City has been declared under a state of calamity due to rising dengue cases. The city has recorded over 200 dengue cases and six deaths. During a regular session, Vice Mayor Gabriel Bordado Jr. declared the city under a state of calamity following the City Council's approval of a joint motion on the measure. This decision came after a resolution filed by Councilor Gayle Abonal-Gomez in response to the surge in dengue cases. Gomez stated that the resolution was recommended by the disaster risk reduction and management council due to the health emergency caused by the increase.
Mayor Leni Robredo has inspected the general hospital and met with various groups to provide additional beds. A dengue fast lane has also been established to ensure direct access for dengue patients.
