Urgent Call to Strengthen Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has called on the Department of Health (DOH) to intensify its anti-rabies vaccination campaign nationwide. This urgent appeal comes amid recent reports of rabies-related deaths in the country, highlighting the critical need to boost vaccination efforts.
The senator, who leads the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized that the number of deaths linked to rabies is a serious concern. In just one week last May, two fatalities were recorded, underscoring the importance of the current anti-rabies vaccination campaign.
Recent Rabies Deaths Highlight Gaps in Vaccination Coverage
One of the recent victims was Janelo Limbing, a 31-year-old factory worker from Cabuyao City, Laguna. He was bitten by his sibling’s dog in August 2024 but only showed symptoms nine months later. Tragically, Limbing passed away after failing to complete the full course of anti-rabies vaccination.
Another victim, a 25-year-old woman named Nichole from Bacolod City, suffered a similar fate. Despite being bitten in March 2025, she chose not to seek treatment due to financial constraints. These cases reveal a critical gap in access to timely and complete vaccinations, which can mean the difference between life and death.
Senator’s Appeal for Enhanced Access and Public Awareness
The senator urged the DOH to review and strengthen its strategies to ensure free anti-rabies vaccines are readily available across the country. He stressed the need for adequate vaccine stocks, especially in remote areas.
“Nakakalungkot na may mga namamatay pa rin dahil lamang sa hindi agad naaksyunan ang kagat o kalmot ng hayop,” Go said. He added, “I appeal to the DOH to intensify the anti-rabies campaign and make sure that all Filipinos, especially in far-flung areas have access to free and complete rabies vaccinations.”
Go also reminded the public to take animal bites and scratches seriously. He pointed out that while rabies is 100 percent fatal, it is also 100 percent preventable if treated promptly.
“Huwag na po natin ipagsawalang-bahala kahit simpleng kagat o kalmot lang. Magpatingin agad sa pinakamalapit na animal bite center at siguraduhing makumpleto ang lahat ng doses ng bakuna laban sa rabies dahil kahit na 100% ang fatality rate ng rabies, it is also 100% preventable kung tayo ay agad na a-askyon,” he stressed.
Health Experts Warn Against Treatment Delays
Medical professionals have warned that delays or incomplete vaccination can lead to complications and reduce the treatment’s effectiveness, often resulting in fatal outcomes. Despite the DOH’s encouragement for annual pet vaccinations, data shows that rabies remains a significant threat.
Last year, the country recorded 426 rabies-related deaths. Early 2025 data reveals 55 rabies cases from January 1 to March 1, with half of the infections caused by bites from household pets. Many of these animals were unvaccinated, increasing the risk of transmission.
Moving Forward: Improving Rabies Prevention Nationwide
Community health leaders emphasize the importance of not only expanding the vaccination campaign for humans but also ensuring pet owners comply with annual vaccinations. Strengthening public education and vaccine accessibility can help reduce rabies cases and save lives.
For more news and updates on rabies vaccination campaign, visit Filipinokami.com.