Laguna province and Calabarzon region have activated emergency health measures in response to a significant dengue spike, according to data from local and national health agencies.

Laguna’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit recorded 1,712 confirmed dengue cases and five deaths between January 1 and February 15; a 267% increase from the same period last year. Santa Rosa and San Pedro led the case count, with over 300 infections each.

Across Calabarzon, the Department of Health reported more than 10,300 dengue cases in the same timeframe and activated 33 “dengue fast lanes” in hospitals to improve urgent triage and treatment. Assistant Regional Director Voltaire Guadalupe stated that dengue is now “no longer seasonal” in the region due to climate variability.

Pakil town in Laguna declared a local state of emergency after reporting 29 dengue cases and two child fatalities by early June. Mayor Vince Soriano said the declaration will help authorities mobilize resources quickly and intensify outreach campaigns.

Nationwide, the DOH reported 52,008 cases from January 1 to February 22, or a 64% increase from 2024, and 76,425 cases from January 1 to March 15, a 78% increase. Calabarzon was still the most affected region with 10,759 cases, followed by NCR and Central Luzon . Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa called for early consultation in dengue fast lanes to avoid serious complications.

The Philippine Red Cross reported donating more than 1,000 units of blood to dengue patients through its B.E.A.T. Dengue campaign. In turn, the DOH-Calabarzon rolled out the 4S strategy—search and destroy breeding grounds, secure protection, seek consultation, support fogging—as preparations for the rainy season.

Health officials pointed out that hospitalization is mostly among children below 14 and that the death rate is low at less than 1% nationwide.

Local authorities persist in organizing community clean-up campaigns to decrease breeding sites of mosquitoes. With various areas still in emergency status and fast lanes in place, health authorities are stepping up surveillance, public health education, and treatment measures to stem further infections.