South Cotabato, Philippines — Seven dogs underwent free castration while three dogs received free anti-rabies vaccination during the Mass Castration and Rabies Vaccination Drive held on August 13, 2026, in Isla Tebenwu, Barangay Poblacion, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
The activity, led by the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) in coordination with local barangay partners, provided accessible veterinary services to pet owners in the island community. A total of six dog owners benefited from the free castration service, while one pet owner availed of the rabies vaccination.
According to Errol Javier, DVM, Veterinarian IV, bringing veterinary services directly to island communities is important in ensuring that pet owners can access essential services despite geographical challenges.
“Gina padayon naton ang pagdala sang libre nga veterinary services sa mga community, labi na sa mga lugar nga medyo malayo kag indi masyado accessible ang mga serbisyo. Importante nga mahatagan naton sang oportunidad ang mga pet owners nga mapa-castrate kag mapa-bakunahan ang ila mga ido para sa kaayuhan sang ila mga pets kag sang komunidad,” Javier said.
The initiative forms part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to promote responsible pet ownership, prevent the spread of rabies, and help control the population of stray and unwanted animals through accessible animal health services.
Javier also emphasized that responsible pet ownership plays an important role in maintaining a safe and healthy community, particularly in preventing rabies and managing the local dog population.
For beneficiary Ellen Tabidad, the free veterinary services provided by the provincial government were a welcome opportunity for pet owners in the community.
“Dako gid ang akon pasalamat kay may ara sang libre nga castration kag anti-rabies vaccination diri sa amon. Indi na kinahanglan magbiyahe pa kami sa malayo para mapa-atipan ang amon mga ido. Dako gid ini nga bulig para sa amon nga mga pet owners,” Tabidad said.
The activity also served as an avenue to strengthen awareness among pet owners on the importance of regular vaccination, responsible ownership, and spaying or neutering as part of efforts to promote healthier pets and safer communities.
Through initiatives such as the Mass Castration and Rabies Vaccination Drive, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to bring animal health services closer to communities and strengthen its commitment to protecting both animals and the people they live with.
