OTON, Iloilo — The Municipality of Oton proved that consistency is key when it comes to public health, clinching the Top Performer Award for its Rabies Prevention and Control Program for the third consecutive year. The recognition was handed out on July 30, 2026 at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City, cementing Oton’s status as a model LGU in the province-wide fight against rabies.
A Three-Peat Victory
SB Member Ma. Lorna T. Geonigo, OIC Municipal Agriculturist Rosena M. Jaspe, and Rabies Program Coordinator Rinold C. Cagcon accepted the award on behalf of Mayor Sofronio L. Fusin Jr. The accolade, given by the Iloilo Provincial Government and the Provincial Veterinary Office, acknowledged Oton’s exceptional performance in mass dog vaccination, responsible pet ownership campaigns, and overall program implementation for the year 2025.
The three-peat is no small feat. It reflects a deeply embedded culture of compliance among pet owners and a local government that refuses to let its guard down. While other municipalities may see fluctuations in their vaccination coverage, Oton has built a system that delivers consistent results year after year.
Teamwork Behind the Trophy
The award was not the work of a single office. Mayor Fusin credited the Sangguniang Bayan, the Municipal Agriculture Office, the Municipal Health Office, barangay officials, and partner agencies for the sustained success. Each sector played a distinct role, from crafting local ordinances to conducting house-to-house vaccination drives.
Barangay officials, in particular, served as the boots on the ground. They identified unvaccinated dogs, educated owners on the importance of regular shots, and organized community assemblies. Their tireless efforts ensured that no corner of Oton was left unprotected, creating a safety net that benefits every resident.
Protecting Every Ogtonganon
Rabies remains a deadly threat, especially for children who are most vulnerable to dog bites. The municipality’s aggressive vaccination drives have drastically reduced the risk of transmission, giving families peace of mind. Pet owners have also become more responsible, understanding that a vaccinated dog is a safer companion.
The program extends beyond vaccination. Animal Bite Treatment Centers are well-stocked and accessible, ensuring that anyone bitten receives immediate care. Public awareness campaigns continuously remind residents of the steps to take after a bite, turning potential tragedies into manageable incidents. The holistic approach transforms Oton from a reactive responder to a proactive protector.
Part of a Province-Wide Goal
Iloilo Province has set an ambitious target: to be declared rabies-free by 2026. Oton, as the most populous municipality in the province, carries significant weight in achieving this vision. Its consistent performance sets a benchmark for other LGUs to emulate, proving that a rabies-free Iloilo is within reach.
The provincial government, led by Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., has poured resources into mass vaccination campaigns, public education, and the strengthening of local treatment centers. Oton’s success validates this investment and provides a blueprint that can be replicated across Panay Island. The fight against rabies is a shared responsibility, and Oton is leading the charge.
