Davao City Health Officials Renew Calls for Responsible Pet Ownership After Rabies Deaths
Health officials in Davao City have issued a renewed appeal for responsible pet ownership and heightened public awareness in response to recent rabies fatalities involving young children. Authorities emphasized that while rabies is one of the deadliest viral diseases once symptoms manifest, it is entirely preventable with prompt action.
Rising Rabies Cases and Recent Tragedies
The City Health Office (CHO) reported a concerning uptick in rabies cases over recent years. Records indicate that the city documented three rabies cases in 2024, which surged to six cases in 2025. In February of this year, two additional cases were recorded, both involving unvaccinated children aged two and four from Marilog District, who tragically succumbed to the disease.
Dr. Yleona Ysabel T. Camelotes, head of the Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC), highlighted that rabies transmission typically occurs from infected animals to humans. "Rabies is viral. It is transmitted from animals to humans, which is why people can become victims of the infection," she stated during the iSpeak Media Forum on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Davao City Hall.
Vaccination Efforts and Current Challenges
Davao City continues to bolster its anti-rabies campaign through vaccination and awareness initiatives. Data from the CHO reveals that 48,360 individuals received anti-rabies vaccinations in 2024, with 48,433 vaccinated in 2025. However, Dr. Camelotes noted that the program is currently grappling with a shortage of rabies vaccines.
To address limited supplies, the ABTC has implemented strategies to enhance vaccine accessibility and affordability. Patients are assessed and categorized prior to treatment, and vaccine sharing is occasionally employed to optimize available doses. Increasing public awareness remains a top priority to prevent further rabies-related deaths.
Emphasis on Responsible Pet Ownership
City Veterinarian Dr. Gay Pallar urged the public to practice responsible pet ownership by ensuring their animals are vaccinated. As of March 12, the City Veterinarian’s Office has administered 27,637 anti-rabies vaccinations to animals across Davao. Anti-rabies operations are conducted within a one-kilometer radius whenever a rabid animal is reported in a community.
First Aid and Immediate Response Guidelines
Dr. Camelotes also reminded residents to follow proper first aid procedures in the event of animal bites or scratches before seeking treatment. "First of all, do not panic. Wash the wound, even scratches, for 10 to 15 minutes under running water, and if detergent soap is available, it is better because its active ingredients can help weaken the virus," she advised.
Victims should apply antiseptics such as betadine or alcohol after washing the wound and proceed immediately to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center. The public ABTC is located at the City Health Office of Davao and opens daily at 10 a.m.
