Barangays and Schools Urged to Lead Fight Against Dengue

By Dr. Cynthia Dela Cruz
Pediatrician, MMG–Aklan Group of Medical Specialists

As a pediatrician and a mother, I’ve seen firsthand the pain and fear that dengue fever brings to families — especially to our children. Every rainy season, we brace ourselves for the same challenge: the return of mosquitoes, the rise of fevers, and the risk of outbreaks.

This year, the danger is once again real.

From January to July 2025, the Provincial Health Office has already recorded 605 dengue cases in Aklan. In just one week — from July 20 to 26 — we saw 22 new cases, mostly from Ibajay, Malay, and Nabas. These aren’t just numbers. These are children missing school, parents rushing to emergency rooms, and families burdened with fear.

But here’s what I want every Aklanon to know: Dengue is preventable. We can stop it — together.

We don’t need expensive medicine or hospital beds to begin the fight. What we need are clean surroundings, community awareness, and unified action.

I strongly urge our barangay councils, school heads, and community leaders to take the lead. Organize clean-up drives. Mobilize your youth. Teach families how to spot and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds — from old tires and cans to open water containers and clogged drains.

Let us bring dengue prevention into our classrooms, church halls, health centers, and homes. Let’s talk about it during PTA meetings, barangay assemblies, and youth gatherings. Empower our people with knowledge and the will to act.

We don’t have to wait for hospitals to be overwhelmed. We can act now — house by house, street by street.

As a doctor, I will always be ready to treat.
But as a community member, I ask you — let’s prevent it.

Let’s protect Aklan.
Let’s protect our children.