Alarmed by the increasing number of rabies-related deaths across the country, Senator Mark Villar is calling for urgent and comprehensive measures to prevent further loss of life from the fatal but preventable disease.

In response to reports circulating online about rabies cases—many of which result in death due to late detection—Senator Villar emphasized the need for proactive efforts that address both human and animal health.

“It’s deeply concerning how many Filipinos are dying from rabies. We must implement coordinated strategies that cover both the human and animal aspects of this issue,” Villar said.

He pointed out that the majority of rabies incidents stem from three main issues: the public’s lack of awareness of the dangers of untreated bites, poor access to human anti-rabies vaccines, and a widespread failure to vaccinate animals, particularly strays.

To tackle these challenges at their root, Senator Villar is advocating for mass animal vaccinations. “By working closely with pet shelters, we’ve seen that the trap-vaccinate-release method is one of the most effective and affordable ways to control rabies, especially among stray dogs and cats,” he noted.

As part of this initiative, Villar has filed a bill in the 20th Congress proposing the establishment of one public veterinary clinic in every city and municipality across the country. These clinics, to be supported by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Industry and local government units, would provide affordable veterinary care, including essential services such as vaccinations and medications.

“Through this bill, we aim to make veterinary services more affordable and accessible to every Filipino,” he said. “We also hope it will encourage local efforts to fight pressing health issues like rabies, starting with protecting our animals.”

The senator underscored the importance of prevention at the community level, particularly by making pet and stray vaccinations a routine part of public health programs.

“Rabies is not just a human health issue. It’s an animal health issue too,” Villar stressed. “That’s why we need sustainable, long-term plans that go beyond reactive measures.”

With the proposed bill, Senator Villar aims to build a nationwide infrastructure that supports animal welfare while also safeguarding public health. The measure is now under legislative review and is expected to play a critical role in the country’s fight against rabies if passed into law.