Tantangan, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVet), in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of Tantangan, conducted a two-day Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign in Barangay New Iloilo recently 6, providing vital animal health services to 440 dogs and cats.
These animals were vaccinated during the activity, while 172 farmers and pet owners benefited from the program.
According to Errol B. Javier, DVM, the campaign demonstrates the strong collaboration among the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office, local government units, and community residents.
“Rabies remains a preventable but deadly disease. Through sustained vaccination activities and the cooperation of pet owners, we can significantly reduce the risk of rabies transmission and create safer communities for both people and animals. We encourage all pet owners to participate in the scheduled vaccination activities in their respective barangays,” Dr. Javier said.
He said the campaign forms part of the province’s continuing efforts to strengthen rabies prevention, promote responsible pet ownership, and protect both animal and human health across South Cotabato. The initiative aligns with the province’s intensified anti-rabies program and its commitment to maintaining rabies-free communities through widespread vaccination and public awareness efforts.
“Regular vaccination of dogs and cats remains one of the most effective ways to prevent rabies and protect families from potential exposure,” Dr. Javier emphasized
One of the beneficiaries, Michelle Paclibar of Barangay New Iloilo, expressed her appreciation for the free veterinary services provided by the government.
“We are very thankful to the Provincial Government, the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office, and the Municipal Agriculture Office for bringing these services directly to our community. The free vaccination helps us protect our pets and gives us peace of mind knowing our families are safer from rabies,” Paclibar said.
Following the successful rollout in New Iloilo, the anti-rabies vaccination team will continue its municipal-wide campaign across Tantangan according to the following schedule:
Date Barangay
July 28–29, 2026 New Lambunao
July 30–31, 2026 Tinongcop
August 4–5, 2026 Cabuling
August 6–7, 2026 Libas
August 11–12, 2026 San Felipe
August 13–14, 2026 Maibo
August 18–19, 2026 Bukay Pait
August 20–21, 2026 Dumadalig
August 25–28, 2026 Poblacion
September 1–2, 2026 New Cuyapo
September 8–9, 2026 Mangilala
September 10–11, 2026 Magon
Provincial officials continue to encourage residents to bring their dogs and cats to the designated vaccination sites and support the province’s goal of achieving broader protection against rabies. The continuing campaign reflects South Cotabato’s commitment to animal welfare, public health, and responsible pet ownership throughout the province.
The Anti-Rabies Vaccination Campaign is spearheaded by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Tantangan and local barangay officials.
