Iloilo’s increasing animal bite cases — from 40,183 in 2021 to over 70,000 in 2024 — and human rabies deaths require immediate attention. While vaccination campaigns and animal bite treatment centers have made strides in mitigating the risk of rabies, these cannot fully succeed without reinforcing animal control policies that limit exposure to rabid animals in the first place.
Yes, one of the primary factors contributing to this surge is the lack of effective control over stray dogs and cats. These animals, often roaming freely without supervision, pose a direct threat to public health. They are more likely to be exposed to rabies through contact with wild animals, and their interactions with people — especially children — frequently lead to bites.
The province must take decisive action to address the issue of stray animals. Implementing stricter regulations on the capture, care, and disposal of strays is essential to reducing the likelihood of animal bites and rabies transmission. In particular, municipalities should consider establishing designated areas for stray animal shelters, where they can be vaccinated, neutered, and monitored. With a more controlled population, the risk of rabid animals circulating in communities would decrease significantly.
Another essential policy that needs to be enforced is leash laws. In rural and urban areas alike, unleashed dogs are a common sight. These dogs, unrestrained and often unmonitored, have the potential to wander into public spaces, where they may attack unsuspecting passersby. The sight of loose animals not only raises concerns about public safety but also exacerbates the threat of rabies transmission.
Iloilo can take inspiration from other provinces with successful leash laws. Strict enforcement, including penalties for owners who fail to control their pets, would help reduce the number of free-roaming dogs. Furthermore, requiring pet owners to keep their dogs on leashes when outside of enclosed spaces could prevent many attacks and make public areas safer for everyone.
Ultimately, animal control policies will only be effective if they are paired with a strong public education campaign. Many animal bites are preventable if pet owners take responsibility for their animals and understand the importance of regular vaccinations, secure fencing, and supervision.
The provincial government, through the Iloilo Provincial Veterinary Office, has already made strides in educating the public by initiating dog vaccination drives targeting at least 70% of the province’s dog population. However, this effort should be supplemented with ongoing educational initiatives that teach residents about the dangers of rabies, the importance of spaying and neutering pets, and how to safely interact with animals.
Public awareness campaigns could be extended to schools, barangays, and local events, where information on proper pet care and responsible ownership can be shared. Encouraging responsible behavior among pet owners would contribute significantly to reducing the number of animals roaming unchecked in communities and, by extension, the risk of rabies.
By prioritizing animal control policies such as leash laws, stray animal management, and public education, Iloilo can build a safer environment for its residents and prevent further loss of life to rabies. The solution lies not only in treatment but in proactive measures that tackle the root cause of the problem.
