Dengue cases rising in parts of NCR, Calabarzon, C. Luzon – DOH
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported an alarming rise in dengue cases in nine areas in Central Luzon, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) , and Metro Manila.
Quezon City, which declared a dengue outbreak on Saturday, is one of the nine affected areas.
DOH Spokesperson Albert Domingo did not identify the eight other areas but said the increase in dengue cases is unusual.
“Normally, cases start rising around June when the rainy season begins. But as of February 1, 2025, we have already recorded 28,234 cases,” Domingo told reporters in Filipino in a Viber audio recording.
Article continues after this advertisement“Compared to the same period last year, from January 1 to February 1, this is 40 percent higher,” he added.
Article continues after this advertisementThe DOH also said that declaring a local dengue outbreak could only be done by LGU officials, in accordance with the law.
“Declaring an outbreak does not mean a disaster. It simply means that the number of cases has exceeded the expected level for a certain time of the year,” Domingo said.
He emphasized that declaring an outbreak should come with a response plan from local government units.
Domingo likewise reminded the public to watch out for signs and symptoms of dengue.
“There is no specific cure for dengue, but symptoms such as weakness and fever can be managed properly in hospitals if necessary,” he said.
To prevent mosquito bites, Domingo advised using mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and applying insect repellent.
“Stagnant water where mosquitoes lay eggs can be a breeding ground for dengue. There are many ways to prevent this, and we must work together with our local government units,” he concluded.
On Saturday, the Quezon City government declared a dengue outbreak following a sharp increase in cases, with 10 fatalities reported, most of whom were children.
Data from the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division showed that from January 1 to February 14, a total of 1,769 dengue cases were recorded—nearly three times higher than the 609 cases reported during the same period last year.
“Our declaration of a dengue outbreak ensures that we are on top of the situation, and we are doing everything we can to protect our residents from this deadly disease, especially our children,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a press conference on Saturday.
