Capiz is now also struggling with a dengue outbreak after recording 1,386 cases and three fatalities from January 1 to August 10, 2024, Governor Fredenil Castro has confirmed.
“An outbreak has been declared. We have exceeded the threshold,” said Castro, blaming “lack of preparedness” from the Department of Health (DOH) and provincial public health authorities.
“It’s like [typhoon] Yolanda all over again—no preparation until it’s too late. You cannot bring back lives lost due to negligence,” the governor said.
This year’s figures mark a 208 percent increase compared to the 450 cases recorded during the same period last year.
According to the Capiz Provincial Health Office, the highest number of cases was recorded in Dumarao with 123 cases, followed by Mambusao (113), Sigma (111), Panitan (85), and other municipalities reporting significant numbers as well.
Castro, however, remains confident that the provincial government—with the cooperation of its citizens—can combat the dengue crisis.
“With your support and cooperation, I believe we will emerge victorious in our campaign against dengue,” he told his constituents.
To intensify its efforts, the Capiz purchased fogging machines and other essential equipment to be distributed to affected municipalities.
Castro assured that the provincial government is ready to augment resources if local supplies run low. The governor also urged the residents of Capiz to adhere to public health reminders from the DOH.
Meanwhile, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. issued Executive Order No. 74, which implements a heightened dengue response across the province following the outbreak declaration. This serves as a guide for local government units (LGUs) to respond effectively to the dengue crisis.
The Iloilo provincial government also encouraged LGUs to adopt the “4 o’clock habit,” a weekly activity dedicated to searching for and destroying potential mosquito breeding sites.
