CEBU CITY – The province of Bohol is intensifying its fight against the spread of rabies through policy reform and multi-sectoral collaboration.

The Provincial Rabies Council and key stakeholders recently convened to review and revise Provincial Ordinance No. 2007-012, as amended by Provincial Ordinance No. 2010-001, otherwise known as the Bohol Rabies Prevention and Eradication Program.

The meeting was presided over by Board Member Mutya Kismit Tirol, author and sponsor of the proposed amendments.

The revision aims to update existing provisions to address emerging challenges in rabies prevention and control across the province.

During the discussion, stakeholders raised key recommendations to strengthen the ordinance.

Among the recommendations were the enforcement of stricter implementation of animal registration and vaccination, improved regulation of animal movement, enhanced management protocols, and clearer provisions on prohibited acts, penalties, and sanctions.

Provincial Health Office representative Polizena Rances reported a concerning rise in animal bite incidents.

Data showed a total of 10,288 human bite cases recorded in the first quarter of 2026 alone. Most cases were attributed to cat bites.

To further strengthen response efforts, the province is also expanding its network of Animal Bite Treatment Centers.

In addition to the existing 28 centers, new facilities have been established at President Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Hospital, Rural Health Unit San Miguel, and Rural Health Unit Pilar.

All recommendations gathered during the meeting have been consolidated and incorporated into the proposed measure.

The ordinance was successfully passed on first reading. Tirol expressed optimism that the revised ordinance will be approved by May.