On June 10, 2025, the Auditorium of the Cavite Collaboration Center for Public Health (CCCPH), TMC Cavite, became the battleground for ideas, action, and advocacy as health professionals marked Dengue Awareness Month with the theme: “United Against Dengue: Prevention Starts with Us.”
The event opened with a comprehensive and inspiring welcome message from Dr. Nelson C. Soriano, Provincial Health Officer I, who set the stage with a strong call for continuous vigilance and community-based action. His message echoed what many already know: dengue prevention doesn’t start with fogging—it starts with awareness, involvement, and simple, consistent action.
Taking inspiration up a notch, Ms. Ludette Lontoc, Development Management Officer IV, delivered an empowering message that resonated well beyond the walls of the auditorium. She reminded everyone of the DOH’s 4T formula —“Taob, Taktak, Tuyo at Takip”— practical yet powerful steps in eliminating mosquito breeding sites. She also highlighted the WILD diseases to watch out for: W – Waterborne diseases; I – Influenza-like illness; L – Leptospirosis and D – Dengue.
Recognizing local health champions, she closed with a striking reminder that blended advocacy with compassion: “Bawat aksyon, bawat solusyon, bawat paalala, ‘wag magsasawa. Dapat tandaan—bawat buhay ay mahalaga.”
The celebration was a convergence of medical professionals, health staff, and frontline advocates, all determined to push forward the province’s anti-dengue initiatives.
Mr. Rafael McDonald, Nurse II, acknowledged the participants, while Ms. Christine D. Perey, RN, Provincial Dengue Coordinator, presented the objectives of the celebration. She emphasized the key roles of local government units and community participation in curbing the dengue threat.
Bringing the data to light, Ms. Cristina A. Amulong, CAE, Sanitation Inspector III and PESU Coordinator, shared the latest Dengue Surveillance Report for Cavite—an eye-opener that reminded everyone that the numbers are not just statistics, but stories waiting to be prevented.
Ms. Barbie P. Calisaan, Health Education and Promotion Officer I, followed with a discussion on Dengue Awareness and Prevention, equipping participants with life-saving knowledge and timely strategies.
The event culminated in a Pledge of Commitment, recited and signed by participants and led by Dr. Soriano, symbolizing the province’s united stand against dengue. To close the program, Dr. Armand J. Dotollo, Head of the Communicable Disease Cluster, delivered the closing remarks and facilitated an open forum, allowing voices from the ground to be heard and responded to. (R. Dones)