The local government here is calling for a sustained cleanup drive amid declining dengue cases in Iloilo City.

“So far, I think we are doing the correct thing. The cases of dengue in the city are very minimal,” Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said in a statement on Tuesday, citing the ongoing cleanup drive and gardening every Saturday.

City Health Office assistant head Dr. Roland Jay Fortuna earlier reported 215 dengue cases with no death from January to July 6 this year, down from the 356 cases and three deaths during the same period last year.

He noted, though, that cases usually start to rise July to September.

Still, Fortuna said Iloilo City has not experienced outbreaks in the last five years, or since it launched its cleanup drive in 2019.

Meanwhile, Treñas said he released an executive order for communities to continue the cleanup drive.

“We continue to campaign because mosquitoes have no boundaries. We have to be vigilant,” he said.

In addition to the continuous cleanup, the local government also conducts regular misting activities in areas with potential mosquito breeding sites.

Schools have procured misting equipment and chemicals coinciding with preparations for the July 29 opening of classes.

Treñas said he plans to provide prizes for the cleanest and greenest village at the end of the year as an incentive to officials and residents. (PNA)