TACLOBAN CITY — The City Veterinary Office(CVO), this city, has rolled out a series of activities this March to strengthen rabies prevention and promote responsible pet ownership as part of the nationwide observance of Rabies Awareness Month.
The campaign, which runs from March 2 to 27, 2026, includes free veterinary services, information drives, and community activities aimed at protecting both animals and residents from rabies and other zoonotic diseases.
According to the CVO, the initiative is anchored on the theme “Rabies-free na Pusa’t Aso, Kaligtasan ng Pamilyang Pilipino!”, emphasizing that the health of pets directly contributes to the safety of families and communities.
As part of its strengthened animal control efforts, the office is also set to implement a Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Release (CNVR) program designed to manage stray animal populations while preventing the spread of rabies.
The program is supported by a local ordinance that promotes animal welfare and disease prevention. Under the policy, barangay chairpersons are designated as key local authorities responsible for overseeing animal welfare programs and supporting rabies control initiatives within their respective communities.
The veterinary office said the campaign also aims to increase public participation in anti-rabies vaccination programs and encourage residents to practice responsible pet ownership.
Among the major activities lined up for the month are free anti-rabies vaccination drives, spay and neuter services for cats on March 13, and free castration services for dogs on March 19, which will be conducted at the veterinary office.
To improve public awareness, the office will also conduct Information, Education and Communication (IEC) sessions for barangay nutrition scholars, health workers, and daycare personnel to help disseminate rabies prevention information at the community level.
Meanwhile, an “I Love My Pet Day” celebration is scheduled on March 25 at Robinsons North Tacloban, where pet owners and animal lovers are expected to gather to celebrate responsible pet care and strengthen community support for animal welfare.
The city government said the activities form part of its continuing efforts to achieve a rabies-free city through sustained vaccination, education, and community involvement.
(JENIEL COLIBAO, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
