The Commission expresses alarm on the national dengue epidemic as declared by the Department of Health (DOH), which affected mostly children. In the first semester of this year, 146, 062 cases have been recorded — a staggering 98% higher than the same period in 2018 according to the DOH. The outbreak has also claimed 622 lives.

Ensuring the protection of children is a primary obligation of the State. This includes putting premium to their health, which is key to the development of their full potential and enjoyment of life and other rights. Dengue pose a major harm to children as well as other citizens. Climate experts warn that the global warming will worsen the dengue challenge for it will result to the increase in the number of mosquitoes and a larger geographic range.

We recognize that DOH has intensified its efforts focusing on destroying the breeding sites of mosquitoes dubbed as “Sabayang 4-O’clock Habit para Deng-Get Out”. The health agency has also assured the public of the readiness of public health centers and hospitals to attend to dengue cases particularly in areas with highest incidence.

Fighting the root cause of dengue through extermination of mosquitoes is one way to curb the epidemic but equally important is protecting the children in the long term through healthcare programs including vaccination. We note that DOH has affirmed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) permanent revocation of the Certificates of Produce Registration (CPRs) of dengue vaccine Dengvaxia “due to the continued failure of manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur, Inc. to submit post-approval requirements” but has given the pharmaceutical company another chance to re-apply and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, rules, and regulations in light of the epidemic.

We reiterate our reminder that utmost due diligence and thorough care be exercised in the effort to address the epidemic as well as in formulating long term solutions to protect children and prevent the recurrence of this deadly health challenge. Given the escalating epidemic, all possible measures must be taken. Collaborative efforts from all concerned agencies is also encouraged to prevent any more casualty and determine a durable solution to protect everyone, especially the vulnerable children, from further harm.

As part of our constitutional mandate, we shall continue to monitor the efforts of the government, particularly DOH, with regards this issue. We also enjoin the public to cooperate with the efforts of the government, follow reminders and warnings, and help with information drive for it is our collective and moral duty to uphold and protect the health and welfare of all especially the children. ###