DAVAO CITY – In a strong push to safeguard public health, the City Government of Davao, through the City Health Office (CHO), intensified its anti-dengue campaign with the official launch of Dengue Awareness Month in Barangay Dacudao, Calinan District on Thursday.
With the theme “Kada alas kuwatro tayo’y gumalaw. Tayo’y mag 4Ts araw-araw,” the campaign highlights the importance of daily preventive practices against dengue, especially during the rainy season when mosquito breeding becomes more common. The 4Ts campaign refers to Search and Destroy, Self-Protection Measures, Seek Early Consultation, and Support Fogging/Spraying during outbreaks.
CHO Head Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon underscored the role of the community in preventing the spread of dengue, urging residents to clean their homes and surroundings regularly.
“Kung tanan manlimpyo lang gyod sa ilahang panimalay ug sa palibot pod, makunhod ang kaso sa dengue,” Ababon said, stressing the importance of collective action in keeping the environment clean and mosquito-free.
Dr. Ababon also reported an increase in barangay mosquito-borne disease task forces, with 52 now established throughout the city—a testament to the growing commitment of local communities in the fight against dengue.
In a message delivered by Dr. Ababon on behalf of Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, the city government reaffirmed its dedication to public health through education, preventive measures, and community engagement.
“Mosquito-borne diseases remain a significant health concern,” the mayor’s message read. “As we celebrate Dengue Awareness Month, may this initiative empower all Dabawenyos to gain a deeper understanding on dengue prevention and mitigation. Let us always remind ourselves that prevention starts at home through simple acts of discipline, vigilance, and responsibility.”
Mayor Duterte also emphasized the city’s ongoing enforcement of City Ordinance No. 0401-20 or the Davao City Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevention and Control Program, a key policy in the local government’s anti-dengue strategy.
More than 50 community members participated in the launch event, where they received briefings on the city’s current dengue situation and CHO-led programs. Attendees were also given dengue prevention kits to help strengthen household-level protection against the disease.
The event marks a proactive step in Davao City’s continued efforts to promote health and safety across all barangays, calling on every Dabawenyo to play an active role in the fight against dengue.