TWO rabies-related deaths, aged two and four years old, have been confirmed in the Marilog District of Davao City in early 2026.
In contrast, three human rabies cases from Ilang, Tugbok, and Tolomo North have been recorded in 2024. In 2025, six cases occurred in Bunawan, Tolomo proper, Tugbok, Calinan, and Boulevard.
Dr. Yleona Ysabel Camelotes, the head of the Animal Bite and Treatment Center, stressed that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear, so they focused on prevention.
“Rabies is 100% fatal but 100% preventable,” Camelotes stated.
The City Veterinarian’s Office, along with several private clinics and animal hospitals, is offering free vaccines for pets and strays to celebrate Rabies Awareness Month in March.
City veterinarian Dr. Gay Pallar urged the public to take advantage of the available services.
“Avail all the free services that we have because they are free,” Pallar said.
Free simultaneous vaccination is scheduled on March 23 in Barangay Calinan (Calinan District), March 24 in Barangay Cawayan (Calinan District), March 25 in Barangay Tambobong (Baguio District), and March 27 in Barangay Matina Pangi (Talomo District).
