The Iloilo provincial government conducted the World Rabies Day Celebration and Awarding Ceremony today, October 1, 2025 at Punta Villa Resort.
Provincial Administrator Raul Banias welcomed the participants on behalf of Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.
In his speech, Banias underscored that animal bites is a public welfare concern in the province.
He reported that every single day, around 200 Ilonggos are bitten by animals, mostly by dogs. From January to June 2025, a total of 35,522 Ilonggos sought treatment at the Animal Bite Treatment Centers.
“We convene today on Rabies Day to remind us all of the gravity of this public health problem if it is not successfully abated,” Banias said.
The Iloilo provincial government is eyeing to declare the province of Iloilo as rabies-free by 2030.
A total of 11 island barangays in Concepcion are now rabies-free. The 4 island barangays of Ajuy, the 1 island barangay of San Dionisio, and the 8 island barangays of Carles have achieved similar status.
The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian is spending millions on anti-rabies vaccines and in maintaining Animal Bite Treatment Centers in municipalities and district hospitals.
Banias is confident that the target can be achieved through a whole-of-province approach. He sought for the LGUs’ help in crafting policies and in the implementation of anti-rabies programs, particularly in mainland barangays.
“Let us do our share in pet registration, mass vaccination, and community education. Let us do our share in making responsible pet ownership the norm, not the exception. Let us do our share to protect our people and our future. We can do this,” the provincial administrator said.
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