World · Philippines Bureau
Albay declares state of calamity as dengue outbreak spreads
The provincial government of Albay has declared a state of calamity after dengue cases surged to 1,785 with 14 deaths recorded in the first nine months of the year. The declaration was approved by the provincial board following recommendations from disaster management authorities.
LSN Philippines ·
LEGAZPI CITY — Albay's provincial board has declared a state of calamity in response to a dengue outbreak that has claimed 14 lives and infected 1,785 people since January 1, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan announced Thursday.
The declaration was approved following a formal recommendation from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), which cited the escalating health crisis as grounds for the emergency measure. The cases recorded through September 8 represent a significant public health challenge for the Bicol region province.
The calamity declaration enables local government units and health authorities to mobilize resources more rapidly to combat the disease spread. Legazpi City, the provincial capital, has emerged as a particular hotspot in the outbreak, though the dengue threat extends across multiple municipalities in Albay.
Health officials have intensified vector control operations and public awareness campaigns as part of response efforts. The declaration allows for expedited procurement of medical supplies and deployment of health personnel to affected areas as needed to contain further transmission.