In a decisive move to counter a potential surge in leptospirosis cases, the Cebu Provincial Government has established a specialized task force. This action comes as a direct response to the widespread flooding caused by Typhoon Tino earlier this month, which forced hundreds of thousands into evacuation centers and exposed communities to contaminated water.
Executive Order Mobilizes Health Response
On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order (EO) 70, creating the Cebu Provincial Leptospirosis Task Force. The mandate of this new body is to coordinate comprehensive disease surveillance, case management, and medical response across all local government units (LGUs), hospitals, and other health partners throughout the province.
While the executive order did not disclose the exact number of leptospirosis cases currently in Cebu, it was issued as a direct reaction to the massive displacement caused by the typhoon. The flooding led to the evacuation of more than 198,000 individuals who sought refuge in 1,793 evacuation centers, significantly increasing the population's risk of contracting waterborne illnesses like leptospirosis.
Emergency Operations Center Activated
Under the governor's directive, the task force will immediately activate a Leptospirosis Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This central command will be responsible for managing a streamlined referral system for both suspected and confirmed cases of the disease. Key functions of the EOC include:
- Operating a 24/7 hotline for public inquiries and emergencies.
- Supervising the distribution and management of critical medical logistics.
- Coordinating closely with the Department of Health (DOH) and other institutions for technical assistance and support.
The EOC will be structured with several specialized desks to ensure efficient operations. These include a Clinical Desk for case intake and referral, a Logistics and Transport Desk to handle supplies, an Information Management Desk for real-time data monitoring, and an Incident Commander to oversee the entire operation and provide policy direction.
Funding and Long-Term Preparedness
To ensure the task force can operate effectively, EO 70 also mandates that funding will be sourced from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (PDRRMF), as well as allocations from the Provincial Health Office and other available funds. All expenditures will adhere to standard government accounting and auditing rules.
Beyond immediate response, the task force has been ordered to ensure strict compliance with DOH health guidelines, strengthen local disease surveillance systems, and mobilize all necessary resources. This strategic approach aims not only to manage the current threat but also to maintain readiness for any future post-flood disease outbreaks in the province.
