ILOILO — Health and local government agencies are ramping up efforts to wipe out rabies in this province, with the Provincial Rabies Control Committee (PRCC) Technical Working Group (TWG) conducting on-site evaluations in remote island communities as part of its mission to declare the province rabies-free.
The TWG, composed of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Education (DepEd), the Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO), the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, the Provincial Health Office (PHO), and the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet), recently visited four barangays in Carles town and one in Ajuy to assess residents’ knowledge of rabies prevention and their participation in the Rabies Control Program.
“Our main goal is to eliminate rabies and eventually declare Iloilo as a rabies-free province,” the PRCC said, underscoring that rabies, though fatal, is entirely preventable with vaccination, public education, and responsible pet ownership.
During the visits, the TWG not only measured awareness levels but also engaged residents in discussions about rabies risks and preventive measures. Communities were given information and resources to encourage proactive participation in the fight against the disease.
The campaign, however, faces challenges including poor access to remote barangays and uneven implementation of educational outreach. Still, the TWG emphasized that determination, teamwork, and community support are pushing the program forward.
Despite the hurdles, officials are confident that the campaign is on track.
“Each challenge is addressed with resilience, flexibility, and a strong sense of teamwork,” the TWG stressed, noting that the cooperation of local residents has been crucial.
Authorities said achieving a rabies-free Iloilo would mark not just a public health milestone but also a model of how collective action can overcome adversity in the pursuit of a healthier and safer future for communities./PN
