PANGASINAN — The Department of Health – Ilocos Region, in coordination with the local governments of Infanta, Pangasinan and Anda, Pangasinan, has intensified its community-based campaign to prevent the spread of rabies across the province, coinciding with the observance of Rabies Awareness Month held on March 30 and 31, 2026.
The initiative focused on strengthening grassroots participation through educational sessions on rabies transmission, responsible pet ownership, and proper animal bite management. These were followed by community action planning and the signing of a Pledge of Commitment among local stakeholders to sustain rabies control measures.
In Anda, the campaign was highlighted by a “Walk With Your Pet” parade, along with free anti-rabies vaccinations and pet registration services. The activity carried the theme “Rabies-Free na Pusa’t Aso, Kaligtasan ng Pamilyang Pilipino,” underscoring the importance of prevention at the household level.
“Every vaccinated pet and every timely wound-care visit is a shield for our families,” said DOH Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco. “Prevention is simple, affordable, and lifesaving—vaccinate pets annually, register them, and seek immediate care for any bite. Together, barangays and households can close the door on rabies.”
The region currently has 111 certified Animal Bite Treatment Centers (ABTCs) and Animal Bite Centers (ABCs), distributed as follows: Ilocos Sur (25), Ilocos Norte (12), La Union (17), and Pangasinan (57). These facilities provide post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and wound care services to bite victims.
For Fiscal Year 2025, Region 1 recorded 335,517 animal bite incidents, highlighting the continued need for expanded vaccination coverage and stronger preventive measures. Meanwhile, 12 suspected rabies cases were reported from January 1 to December 31, 2025, with surveillance and response efforts ongoing.
Rabies Prevention and Control Program Manager Ana Fe D. Perez stressed the importance of immediate action after an animal bite. “If bitten, clean the wound immediately and proceed to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center. It is likewise important to complete the prescribed vaccinations. A single community-wide push—education, vaccination, registration—will save lives,” she said.
Authorities continue to remind pet owners to have their animals vaccinated annually, register them with local authorities, and avoid leaving bites untreated. Residents are advised to wash wounds with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly for post-exposure prophylaxis.
The Department of Health – Ilocos Region reiterated its commitment to provide technical support, certify ABTCs, strengthen surveillance systems, and collaborate with local government units to advance toward rabies elimination.
Officials said the coordinated efforts of Infanta and Anda demonstrate how sustained community engagement can move the region closer to achieving rabies-free status, with both LGUs actively preparing for Rabies-Free Zone certification through mass vaccination, pet registration, and improved bite-case management.
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