By IME SORNITO
ILOILO — With persistent rains heightening the twin threats of dengue and flooding, the Iloilo provincial government is mobilizing communities across the province for a massive cleanup and clearing operation on Saturday, September 19.
The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) is urging Ilonggos to join “Limpyo Iloilo: Panglimpyo para sa Dengue kag Baha,” a province-wide campaign aimed at eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and clearing waterways that could trigger flooding.
The activity will be held ahead of the observance of World Cleanup Day on Sunday, September 20.
PGENRO particularly called on residents to clean esteros, creeks, canals, rivers, household surroundings, streets and roadsides as rains brought by the southwest monsoon or habagat increase the risk of flooding.
“We invite every Ilonggos and convergence partners to actively participate in the Limpyo Iloilo: Panglimpyo para sa Dengue kag Baha province-wide campaign!” PGENRO said.
The agency stressed that keeping communities clean is crucial not only in reducing flooding but also in protecting residents from possible dengue outbreaks.
PGENRO urged Ilonggos to consistently practice the government’s 4S Strategy against dengue, beginning with search and destroy — locating and eliminating stagnant water containers and other potential mosquito breeding sites.
Residents are also advised to secure self-protection by wearing light-colored long sleeves, pants and socks and using insect repellents containing DEET, a chemical active ingredient used in bug sprays and lotions to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. It does not kill pests. Instead, it blocks their ability to smell human skin and breath.
The third strategy is to seek early consultation, particularly by immediately consulting the nearest health center when experiencing fever for two consecutive days.
The public is likewise urged to support fogging or spraying, particularly targeted chemical spraying operations in identified dengue hotspot areas experiencing a surge in cases.
PGENRO also emphasized sustained solid waste management through proper waste disposal and regular cleaning of esteros, creeks, canals, rivers and roadsides to prevent garbage and other debris from clogging waterways and contributing to flooding.
The agency further encouraged communities to observe the 4 o’clock habit every Monday, dubbed “Kada Lunes nga Lihok Kontra Lamok!”, by regularly inspecting and cleaning their surroundings to eliminate possible mosquito breeding sites.
The province-wide campaign seeks to turn regular community cleanup into a simultaneous defense against two recurring public safety threats — dengue during the rainy season and flooding caused or aggravated by clogged drainage systems and waterways./PN
