PAKIL, Laguna (PIA) — The local government of Pakil in Laguna has ramped up public health measures and awareness campaigns after the town was placed under a state of emergency due to rising dengue cases.
“The Pakil LGU, together with the Municipal Health Office and the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, is continuing its investigation and response. Community assemblies are being held in the barangays to raise awareness about dengue,” said Danica Tolentino, head of the Laguna Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU), in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency Calabarzon.
The town council passed a resolution on June 2 approving the declaration of state of emergency.
From January to June 2, 2025, Pakil recorded a total of 29 dengue cases, with five classified as active. Two children, aged 5 and 7, have died from dengue infection.
Tolentino added: “During the rainy season, there is a high risk of increased dengue cases. That is why we are monitoring not only confirmed cases but also suspected and probable ones to ensure the community is well-protected and closely observed.”
In a statement, Mayor Vince Soriano said the declaration allows for the swift implementation of response measures and the mobilization of resources to help curb the spread of the mosquito-borne disease.
The mayor also urged residents to take an active role in preventing the spread of dengue.
“We are constantly looking for areas where mosquitoes that carry dengue can breed. We urge everyone to help maintain cleanliness to prevent this type of disease,” Soriano said.
The local government re-activated its “4S Kontra Dengue” campaign, an initiative that promotes searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, securing self-protection measures like using mosquito repellents, seeking early consultation, and supporting fogging/spraying only in hotspot areas. (AM/PIA 4A)