Cebu City is grappling with a shortage of anti-rabies vaccines, threatening its goal of achieving herd immunity among dogs and intensifying concerns over rabies prevention. This comes as the City Council deliberates a proposed ordinance on responsible pet ownership and stray animal management.
Vaccine Shortage Details
During its regular session on May 19, 2026, the City Council learned from Jessica Maribojoc, head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF), that the current vaccine supply is insufficient. The DVMF later clarified that an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 additional vaccine vials are needed to achieve at least 70 percent vaccination coverage of the city's dog population.
The shortage affects not only stray dogs but also owned and community dogs, which are critical in preventing rabies transmission. "Responsible vaccination coverage among owned dogs and community dogs is just as critical as addressing strays in preventing the spread of rabies," the DVMF said.
Proposed Ordinance on Pet Ownership
The measure, authored by Councilor Paul Labra II, aims to institutionalize guidelines on responsible pet ownership, humane community pet care, and stray animal management. It seeks to address concerns over stray animals, increasing animal bite incidents, improper disposal of pet waste, and low vaccination coverage.
"For many of us, pets are more than animals, they are companions and part of the family," Labra said, emphasizing the balance between public health and animal welfare.
Under the proposed ordinance, pet owners would be required to register and microchip their pets. Fees would be set at P600 for lifetime registration with microchipping and P200 for regular registration.
Concerns and Criticism
Councilor Phillip Zafra urged the DVMF to fast-track vaccine procurement through a supplemental budget rather than waiting for the next annual appropriation.
Animal welfare advocate Norman Marquez criticized the proposal, questioning the implementation of existing animal welfare laws and whether registration fees would provide adequate funding. He also raised concerns about the catch-neuter-vaccinate-return program, arguing that returning animals to communities after intervention contributes to persistent stray populations.
"The city must address the root causes of stray overpopulation, including limited funding for spay and neuter programs," Marquez said, adding that long-standing animal welfare laws have yet to be fully implemented.
Path Forward
The proposed ordinance seeks to strengthen vaccination compliance, responsible pet ownership, and community participation in animal welfare programs as Cebu City continues to confront rabies-related public health challenges.
