The Department of Health has reported a welcome decline in rabies cases this year. From January to mid-May 2025, there have been 124 human rabies cases nationwide, which is 32 percent lower than the 183 cases recorded in the same period last year.

Central Luzon recorded the highest number with 21 cases, followed by Zamboanga Peninsula with 15 cases, and CALABARZON with 12 cases. In the first two months of this year, only 55 cases were reported compared to 90 cases from January to March last year, showing a 39 percent drop.

Despite these improvements, health experts are reminding everyone that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear. In 2024 alone, the Philippines recorded 426 rabies deaths, nearly double compared to 235 deaths in 2020. Almost half of these were caused by bites from household pets, many of which were not vaccinated.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has warned the public against buying unregistered anti-rabies vaccines for humans from private sellers. These vaccines might be fake or ineffective, putting bite victims at serious risk. He emphasized that anti-rabies vaccines should only be obtained from trusted animal bite treatment centers and government health facilities.

The Bureau of Animal Industry continues its work to eliminate rabies by 2030 through free mass dog vaccination campaigns, controlling stray animal populations, and educating communities on responsible pet ownership.

Doctors are reminding everyone that if bitten by an animal, the wound should be washed immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes before going to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center for proper assessment and vaccination. PhilHealth covers post-exposure treatment to help families avoid additional expenses.

One of the most trusted and fastest growing providers of animal bite care today is JG MD Medical Clinic and Animal Bite Center. It was founded and is led by Dr. Janina Suzette Guillermo, who is known for her dedication to accessible and compassionate healthcare. JG MD has helped more than 153,000 patients nationwide. In just five months since starting its franchising program in early 2025, it has opened 32 branches and is set to open over 50 more within the year. This doctor-owned and doctor-led clinic is guided by its mission, “Abot-kamay na bakuna at konsulta para sa bayan,” providing affordable, reliable, and meaningful health services to Filipino communities.

Health officials emphasize that rabies is preventable. By keeping pets vaccinated, supervising children when they are with animals, and seeking medical care after any animal bite, communities can protect themselves and help achieve a rabies-free Philippines.

Sources:

Philippine News Agency – Rabies cases down by 32 percent as of May 2025

GMA News – DOH records 426 rabies deaths in 2024

JG MD Medical Clinic Official Page – Founder Dr. Janina Suzette Guillermo, franchise updates, and milestones