Iloilo Launches Annual Anti-Rabies Drive

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office, launched its annual anti-rabies vaccination campaign on Feb. 4 at the Lambunao Sports Center.

The province-wide campaign, in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Lambunao, aims to eliminate rabies and protect both humans and animals through mass vaccination.

“The vaccination drive aims to reach a significant portion of the province’s animal population, focusing on dogs and cats. Rabies remains a serious public health concern, and the provincial government is committed to its eradication,” the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office said in a statement.

Local officials, including Lambunao Vice Mayor Arvin L. Losaria, supported the initiative, emphasizing its role in preventing rabies-related fatalities.

Guest speaker Dr. Rouena Vivien Yonzon from Zoetis highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for regular vaccinations to safeguard communities.

The Provincial Rabies Control Committee, along with various government and private sector partners, collaborated to implement the campaign.

With scheduled vaccination drives across Iloilo, authorities are urging pet owners to participate.

Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Darel Tabuada announced that the mass vaccination campaign will run until April, targeting 70% of the province’s dog population, which has risen to 367,907.

This means an estimated 257,523 dogs will receive vaccinations.

In 2024, the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office exceeded its initial target, vaccinating over 283,000 dogs, or 87.37% of the 324,764 total dog population.

For 2025, the PVO has allocated PHP 9 million for vaccines and supplies, including approximately 21,000 vials, enough to immunize 210,000 dogs across Iloilo.

The province aims to be rabies-free by 2030.