Albay Cathedral Rings Bells to Combat Dengue

In Legazpi City, Albay, the St. Gregory the Great Albay Cathedral and its chapels are now ringing their bells for one minute at 4 p.m. daily as a measure to combat the spread of dengue fever. The bell tolls serve as a reminder for residents to clean their surroundings and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. Led by Rev. Fr. Lyndon Balubar, the parish priest, this initiative stems from growing concerns over the prevalence of dengue in the community. Father Balubar believes the church bells can be an effective tool to remind people of the importance of hygiene in their daily lives. Dengue fever, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, typically sees an increase in cases in the Philippines during the rainy season. It can cause fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Therefore, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds is crucial for preventing its spread. This church-led campaign complements the efforts of public health authorities and highlights the role of the community in dengue prevention by encouraging resident participation. In the Philippines, while remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are vital to the economy, such public health challenges require ongoing attention within the country.