The Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF) in Cebu City has reported a shortage of anti-rabies vaccines, attributed to reduced budget allocations for veterinary biologics and a surge in demand amid an intensified immunization campaign.
Budget Constraints and Rising Demand
DVMF head Jessica Maribojoc explained that the supply gap stems from lower spending on veterinary drugs and biologics, alongside an expansion of vaccination efforts across local barangays. "The increased demand for rabies vaccines was also driven by rising rabies cases and the availability of trained vaccinators in the barangays," she said.
Vaccine Deficit
The DVMF disclosed that Cebu City still needs approximately 10,000 to 11,000 vaccine vials to meet the recommended coverage for effective rabies control. So far this year, the City has vaccinated 10,903 dogs, with the total number of vaccinated animals, including cats, reaching 16,220.
Population Targets
Using the 2016 baseline dog population of 167,261, the DVMF said Cebu City must vaccinate at least 117,083 dogs annually to achieve the 70 percent coverage recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Currently, around 106,180 more dogs need immunization to meet this target. Maribojoc emphasized that the 70 percent benchmark is internationally recognized as the minimum threshold for herd immunity and interrupting rabies transmission.
The estimated dog population varies by model; while the 2016 baseline is 167,261, newer projections based on human population ratios estimate between 106,200 and 265,500 dogs.
Supply History
Maribojoc noted that the vaccine shortage was already present when she assumed office as officer-in-charge in January. During her previous tenure from June 2021 to May 2024, the department consistently sought increased allocations, which prevented shortages and allowed supplies to last until 2025.
Proposed Ordinance
The shortage came to light during a public hearing on a proposed ordinance by Councilor Paul Labra II, which seeks to institutionalize responsible pet ownership, humane community pet care, and stray animal management. Councilors raised concerns about the City's ability to strengthen vaccination campaigns and enforce stricter policies amid the shortage. The ordinance also aims to address stray animal issues, animal bite incidents, low vaccination coverage, and improper pet waste disposal, promoting pet registration and microchipping as part of rabies prevention and animal welfare efforts.
