The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) has forged an agreement with a pharmaceutical firm to combat the dengue disease in the affected areas nationwide.
In a statement, ULAP president Dakila ‘Dax’ Cua said dengue prevention may be a local concern but local government units (LGUs) need assistance.
The agreement with the Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. is under the Empowering Communities for a Dengue-Ready Philippines Project (Project E-CODE).
Earlier, Cua called on the national government to procure dengue vaccines, stressing that “this collaboration reinforces local government initiatives in dengue prevention, education, and vaccination programs to better protect communities nationwide.’’
Citing the urgency of the intervention, Cua noted that dengue remains a persistent public health concern in the Philippines, with thousands of cases reported annually, citing that Quezon City has declared a dengue outbreak, prompting the mobilization of local assets and resources to stem the advance of the disease.
“Through Project E-CODE, we are equipping LGUs with the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to enhance their local dengue response, ensuring that prevention and protection reach even the most vulnerable sectors,” he added.
Project E-CODE is designed to mitigate the incidence and severity of dengue cases by strengthening public awareness and enhancing the capacity of healthcare professionals, Barangay Health Workers, and community leaders.
The initiative will focus on areas with high dengue incidence, including Pasig City, Quezon City, Makati, Taguig, Mandaluyong, San Fernando, Iloilo City, Cebu City, Tacloban, Bacolod, Davao City, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos City, and the provinces of Quirino, Laguna, Cavite, Capiz, Bohol, and Bukidnon.
Through Project E-CODE, the stakeholders will collaborate on joint initiatives such as capacity-building programs, information campaigns, and coordinated engagements with local government units to expand access to preventive healthcare solutions.
“This initiative underscores ULAP’s commitment to fostering partnerships that empower LGUs in delivering responsive and effective public health programs,’’ Cua continued.