22/09/2026
Dengue cases are rising. π¨
Letβs practice the 4S Strategy to prevent dengue:
1. Search and destroy mosquito-breeding places
2. Seek early consultation for signs and symptoms
3. Self-protection measures.
4. Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas when indicated
Stay alert, stay protected, and help keep our communities dengue-free. π¦
For any health concerns Labline Medical and Diagnostic Center and Dr. Suzanne Jao - Sanchez are here to serve you!
DOH Bicol CHD raises Code Blue as dengue cases surge by 19%
The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) has declared a Code Blue alert across the region on September 18, 2026 following a 19% increase in dengue cases, signaling heightened readiness and mobilization of health resources.
According to the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, a total of 2,167 dengue cases have been recorded from January 1, 2026 to September 5, 2026, marking a 19% rise compared to the same period last year. This has prompted DOH Bicol CHD to activate its emergency response protocols to safeguard communities.
Further, the rising number of cases has strained hospital capacity. As of September 17, 2026, the overall dengue bed utilization rate in the Bicol Region has reached 107%, indicating that the current bed capacity has been exceeded.
In response, the DOH Bicol CHD issued Regional Memorandum 2026-0165 formally raising the Code Blue Alert to strengthen preparedness and response measures. The directive calls on all DOH hospitals, Provincial DOH Offices, Health Emergency Management Services Point Persons, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health coordinators to maintain heightened vigilance and preparedness and submit flash reports on dengue-related incidents and health emergencies.
Its Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit will conduct active monitoring of dengue-related events and coordinate with local government units, health facilities, and partner agencies to ensure a unified response.
The DOH Bicol CHD urges communities to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing dengue transmission by practicing the 4S strategy: Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites, Seek early consultation when symptoms appear, Self-protect against mosquito bites, and Support fogging or spraying in hotspot, clustering, and outbreak areas. (DOH5/DDC)
