From September to December 2024, we supported the USAID Breakthrough ACTION project led by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs in launching a rabies communication campaign in Marinduque. Our role focused on measuring the campaign’s reach and effect, especially among mothers who often take the lead in protecting their households from health risks.

The campaign aimed to improve how mothers understand rabies, how they interact with dogs, and how confident they feel when responding to bites or scratches. To track change, we conducted rapid assessments in Mogpog, Boac, and Buenavista. Each municipality had 30 mothers surveyed before the campaign and another 30 after.

How We Carried Out the Study

The pre-campaign survey took place on September 26 and 27. The post-campaign follow-up happened from December 2 to 5. These surveys helped us compare shifts in knowledge, perception, and confidence over a three-month period.

Coordination with local government units was key. We visited municipal halls and health offices to ensure alignment with local plans. Mayors and health officers across all three municipalities expressed strong support. In Buenavista, Mayor Siena encouraged future collaboration with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society to help deepen rabies prevention work.

Adapting in the Field

We encountered a few challenges during data collection. In public markets, many mothers were pressed for time. Rain affected turnout in some areas. To adjust, our enumerators conducted interviews in schools, food stalls, public plazas, and transport terminals. These flexible strategies allowed us to reach respondents in real settings and gather the information we needed without disrupting their day.

What This Means for Rabies Prevention

This project showed that community-based awareness campaigns can make an impact when paired with strong local partnerships and tailored communication. By listening to mothers and understanding how they assess risks and act during emergencies, we gained a better sense of what works and what still needs to improve.

We believe these small but focused efforts help build safer, more informed communities. Rabies is entirely preventable, and with the right knowledge and timely response, families can stay protected.

If you would like to request the full report, please feel free to contact us. We would be glad to share the findings and insights that shaped this campaign.