Dengue cases in Cagayan Valley have more than doubled in 2025, so far, prompting tighter preventive efforts in schools and communities as the rainy season begins.

From January to May 24, 2025, the Department of Health – Center for Health Development Region 2 recorded 3,389 dengue cases. This marks a 102 percent increase from the 1,678 cases in the same period last year. 11 deaths were also reported, compared to five in 2024.

In Dagupan City, the local health office has intensified misting operations in schools to kill dengue-carrying mosquitoes before students return for classes. Since May 28, the operation has already covered 90 percent of public elementary and secondary schools in the city.

“Dapat maglinis tayo, hindi lang sa bahay kundi sa kapaligiran,” Gildo Resoso, Sanitation Inspector I of the Dagupan City Health Office, said.

Schools are also doing their part with their own anti-dengue clean-up drives.

“Ang SALG at YES-O nagtutulungan, pati BSP at GSP, upang linisin ang school ground para iwas-dengue,” Marilou Taminaya, Assistant Principal of West Central Elementary School 1, said.

With the rainy season underway, parents are also being extra watchful of their children’s health.

“Mahirap kasi sa panahon ‘yung dengue. Tag-ulan na kasi, lalo malapit kami sa ilog,” Jennylene Bo, whose six-month-old baby has had recurring fever, cough, and colds, said.