30/03/2025
RABIES AWARENESS MONTH CELEBRATION 🐕
On March 27, 2025, the Municipality of Buenavista held a significant event in observance of Rabies Awareness Month at the Buenavista Cultural Center. The program, which began at 9:30 AM, gathered various stakeholders, including Barangay Captains, Kagawads on Health, Barangay Animal Livestock Aides (BALA), and Barangay Health Workers (BHW) leaders, all united in the goal of enhancing rabies prevention and control in the community.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Marivic L.Chua, the Municipal Health Officer, who emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating rabies. She acknowledged the efforts of local leaders in raising awareness and ensuring that proper measures are in place to prevent rabies-related incidents.
A special message was then delivered by Sir Lino Divinagracia, the Municipal Agricultural Officer (MAO), who highlighted the significance of responsible pet ownership and the role of vaccination in keeping the community safe from rabies. He encouraged continuous collaboration between local health and agricultural offices to strengthen rabies control initiatives.
The highlight of the event was the comprehensive talk given by Ms. Polizena Rances, a Nurse 4 and the Bohol Provincial Rabies Coordinator. She provided an in-depth discussion on rabies, its transmission, symptoms, and the necessary preventive measures. Ms. Rances stressed the importance of timely vaccination for both pets and humans, as well as the need for immediate medical attention in case of animal bites.
Following this, Dr. Philippe Angelo Mamaril, a Doctor to the Barrios (DTTB), presented on Rabies Management and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). He explained the proper medical interventions after an animal bite, underscoring the importance of seeking professional medical care rather than relying on traditional remedies. His discussion provided crucial knowledge for barangay health workers who often serve as the first point of contact for bite victims.
Another essential topic was covered by Sir Melvin Tradio, a Livestock Technician, who discussed Rabies Control and Management from an agricultural and veterinary perspective. He explained the role of livestock technicians in monitoring rabies cases among animals and the need for a coordinated effort between veterinary and health professionals to prevent outbreaks.
The program concluded at 12:30 PM with closing remarks from Mrs. Aileen Mahusay, the Public Health Nurse (PHN). She expressed gratitude to all the speakers and participants for their dedication to the cause, urging them to apply what they had learned in their respective barangays.
In the afternoon, a free rabies vaccination drive was conducted for cats and dogs, further reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to rabies prevention. Pet owners from various barangays brought their animals to receive the life-saving vaccine, ensuring protection against rabies and helping to reduce the risk of transmission to humans. The activity was well-received by the community, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership in achieving a rabies-free environment.
This Rabies Awareness Month celebration served as a vital platform for education, advocacy, and action. With continued awareness and proactive measures, the Municipality of Buenavista moves closer to a future free from the threat of rabies.
