By Mariela Angella Oladive
Dengue cases in the province are declining, with 38 towns reporting fewer infections in the latest two-week surveillance, according to the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO).
Dr. Rodney Labis, head of IPHO’s Health Service Delivery Division, said the affected areas posted a negative two-week growth rate, indicating fewer cases compared to those logged three to four weeks earlier.
“This is a good indication that cases in the municipalities are declining,” Labis said in a statement.
“The overall growth rate is negative 48 percent in the province, which is a good sign.”
As of April 5, Iloilo recorded a total of 1,300 dengue cases, including seven deaths.
This marks an 85.2 percent increase from the 702 cases and two deaths reported in the same period last year.
In the 14th monitoring week, 77 new cases were reported—down from 99 the previous week.
The municipalities with the highest number of cases are San Joaquin (98), Leon (80), Oton (78), Cabatuan (62), and Dumangas (61).
Fatalities were reported in Pototan and Carles (two each), and one each in Oton, Tigbauan, and Balasan.
Dengue clustering—defined as three or more cases in a barangay within four consecutive weeks—was observed in 15 barangays across 11 municipalities.
In response, the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) is enforcing Executive Order No. 29, signed by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. on March 27, 2025.
The order mandates the “Limpyo Iloilo, Kada Lunes nga Lihok Kontra Lamok” initiative.
The program calls for intensified clean-up operations every Monday, targeting mosquito breeding sites like stagnant water containers and unmanaged garbage.
The IPHO is also conducting entomological surveys in selected areas to collect larvae and assess the prevalence of dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Labis said the findings will be used to guide localized interventions.
Residents are encouraged to follow the Department of Health’s 4S strategy:
- Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites
- Secure self-protection measures
- Seek early consultation for fever and other symptoms
- Support fogging or spraying in hotspot areas
Health officials stressed that sustained community participation is essential in preventing further outbreaks.
