ILOILO City – With rabies cases on the rise and stray dogs accounting for half of the infections here, the City Veterinary Office (CVO) has shifted to street-level vaccination strategy in a bid to curb the spread of the fatal disease.
As of the latest update, the city has recorded eight confirmed rabies cases, four of which were traced to stray dogs captured and tested from areas including Sunburst Park in the City Proper and Barangay Sto. Niño Sur in Arevalo district.
The city government credits concerned citizens and animal rescue volunteers for reporting and submitting the animals for testing.
“We’re seeing a troubling rise in rabies cases, but it’s important to note that we’re responding quickly and proactively,” said Dr. Fernando Abulencia, head of the CVO. “The key to controlling rabies is not just tracking cases but preventing them through mass vaccination efforts and community awareness.”
Breaking from the conventional method of impounding stray dogs, the CVO now vaccinates them on-site in public places where they typically gather, such as Sunset Boulevard and Plaza Libertad.
“We no longer catch all the stray dogs and bring them to the pound. Instead, we bring the vaccines to them, especially in high-traffic areas like Sunset Boulevard, Plaza Libertad, and other public spaces where stray animals tend to gather,” Abulencia explained. “By vaccinating on-site, we not only prevent the spread of rabies but also minimize the stress and trauma that comes with capturing and caging these animals.”
This approach, the CVO noted, is both humane and effective. After vaccination, residents are encouraged to keep their pets securely confined to reduce exposure.
According to Dr. Abulencia, the campaign’s effectiveness relies heavily on collaboration with residents and animal welfare groups.
“This isn’t just a job for the veterinary office; it’s a collective responsibility,” he said. “We’ve had a great response from concerned citizens and animal rescue organizations. They are bringing these stray dogs to us for testing, and they’re also helping spread awareness about the importance of vaccination.”
Vaccinations have already been completed in three city districts, with efforts now underway in Mandurriao. The goal is to reach enough animals to create herd immunity and significantly reduce the risk of rabies transmission to humans.
“No one should have to live in fear of rabies, and while the threat is real, we are taking all the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading further,” said Abulencia. “We are working on a multi-layered approach: vaccinate, control, and educate. The community needs to be part of the solution, and together, we can ensure that our city remains safe from this deadly disease.”
The city is also set to resume its spay and neuter program, aiming to manage the long-term stray population, which is a major factor in rabies outbreaks.
Despite the increase in animal rabies cases, the City Health Office reports that there have been no rabies-related human deaths in Iloilo City so far this year — an outcome city officials attribute to prompt response and public cooperation.
“The presence of stray animals will always be a challenge, but it’s a challenge we can manage,” Abulencia said. “Together, with continued collaboration, vigilance, and responsible pet ownership, we can prevent rabies and protect the health of our community.”/PN
