MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reported that the Philippines logged 155,918 dengue infections from January 4 to September 16, marking a 33% decrease compared to the 231,850 cases recorded over the same period in 2025.
Despite the overall year-on-year drop, health authorities warned the public about a recent surge over the past month.
“An increasing trend has been observed in the recent three to four weeks with 19,792 cases, 14 percent higher than the reported 17,342 in the previous five to six weeks,” the DOH said.
Data from the agency showed that Central Luzon (Region III), Calabarzon (Region IV-A), and the National Capital Region (NCR) accounted for the highest concentration of infections. The median age of patients stands at 13 years old, making school-aged children the most affected demographic.
In response, the health department urged educational institutions to reinforce preventive strategies and step up efforts to eliminate breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes.
“The DOH reminds the public not to be complacent and to sustain the practice of ‘4Ts–Taob, Taktak, Tuyo, Takip’,” it said.
The “4Ts” protocol emphasizes emptying water-collecting containers, discarding objects that trap stagnant water, maintaining dry surfaces, and keeping water storage covered to deter mosquito breeding.
Health officials further advised parents to promptly seek medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility if their children exhibit symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, body aches, nausea, vomiting, or skin rashes.