Davao City – The City Health Office (CHO) has reported a decline in dengue cases in Davao City for the first half of 2025, attributing the improvement to sustained public health interventions and heightened community participation.
From January to May 31, a total of 1,682 dengue cases were recorded by the CHO’s Tropical Disease Prevention and Control Unit — a noticeable decrease compared to the 1,942 cases reported from January to June 1 of last year.
CHO Head Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon said the decline in cases reflects the effectiveness of the city’s intensified campaign against mosquito-borne diseases, particularly through public awareness and strict implementation of control measures.
Among the notable interventions, the CHO has conducted surveillance in 18,258 houses and performed Targeted Outdoor Residual Spraying (TORS) and Targeted Indoor Residual Spraying (TIRS) in 761 households as of June 2.
In addition, the office has carried out fogging operations in 78 communities, conducted 152 information and education campaigns, distributed 5,792 dengue prevention kits, and completed 373 search-and-destroy activities targeting mosquito breeding sites.
Despite the decline, the CHO noted that several barangays remain hotspots for dengue cases. These include Bucana, Buhangin Proper, Talomo Proper, Tibungco, Calinan Proper, Catalunan Grande, Tigatto, Bunawan Proper, Panacan, Matina Crossing, Cabantian, Maa, Sasa, Catalunan Pequeño, Mintal, Barangay 19-B, Lubogan, Bago Gallera, Sto. Niño, and Daliao.
Dr. Ababon emphasized the importance of continued community involvement, highlighting the city’s expanded network of Mosquito-Borne Disease Task Forces, which grew from five to 52 this year — a testament to Davao City’s strengthened grassroots response.
“We remind every Dabawenyo that keeping our surroundings clean is still the best defense against dengue. Simple acts like regularly emptying water containers and proper waste disposal can go a long way in stopping mosquitoes from breeding,” he said.
The CHO continues to urge residents to remain vigilant, especially during the rainy season, when dengue cases typically rise.