By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod City government has stepped up its anti-rabies campaign with the launch of a house-to-house pet vaccination drive, aiming to curb the rising number of rabies cases and move closer to becoming a rabies-free city.

The intensified initiative, led by the City Veterinarian’s Office (CVO), brings vaccination teams directly to barangays to ensure wider coverage, especially among households that may not be able to bring their pets to fixed vaccination sites.

Mayor Greg Gasataya said the program reflects the city government’s commitment to strengthening public health services and protecting both residents and animals from rabies, a fatal but preventable disease.

According to Dr. Janine Sarthou, assistant city veterinarian, the campaign combines free mass vaccination with on-the-spot education for pet owners to promote responsible pet care.

She said the house-to-house approach is designed to maximize reach and ensure that more dogs are protected.

CVO records show that about 80,000 dogs were vaccinated in 2025.

For 2026, the city has raised its target to at least 100,000 dogs as part of its updated rabies prevention strategy.

Vaccinations are free for Bacolod residents, with teams visiting households based on a scheduled rollout across barangays.

The program is expected to be completed between July and August.

To support the expanded campaign, the city government has allotted P6 million, which will also fund a free spay and neuter (kapon) program aimed at controlling the dog population and sustaining long-term rabies prevention efforts./CJ, WDJ