Dengue Outbreak Declared in QC: Are You Unknowingly Breeding Deadly Mosquitoes at Home?

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In response to the alarming surge in dengue cases, Quezon City has officially declared an outbreak, with 1,769 reported cases and 10 fatalities—eight of whom were minors—between January 1 and February 14, 2025. 

 Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Our declaration of a dengue outbreak ensures that we are on top of the situation, and we are doing everything we can to protect our residents from this deadly disease, especially our children."

Amid this crisis, the EcoWaste Coalition, an environmental watchdog based in Quezon City, is urging residents to adopt ecological waste management practices to combat the spread of dengue. Jove Benosa, the group's Zero Waste Campaigner, highlighted the importance of community involvement: "We are one with the QC Government in promoting measures that will halt the spiraling cases of dengue viral infections that have so far claimed the lives of 10 residents, mostly children."

Improper waste disposal can create breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti, the mosquito species responsible for transmitting the dengue virus. Items like plastic bags, bottles, and discarded tires can collect stagnant water, providing ideal conditions for mosquito larvae. To address this, the EcoWaste Coalition emphasizes adherence to the Quezon City Environmental Protection and Waste Management Code, which mandates all households and establishments to maintain cleanliness and segregate waste at the source into compostable, recyclable, residual, and special waste categories.

The World Health Organization (WHO) supports this approach, stating that proper storage, collection, and disposal of waste are essential for protecting public health and can significantly reduce Aedes aegypti larval habitats.

To assist residents in implementing effective waste management and dengue prevention strategies, the EcoWaste Coalition offers the following guidelines:

Segregate waste at the source: Keep non-biodegradable materials dry and clean to facilitate recycling.

Eliminate standing water: Regularly inspect and remove stagnant water from your home and surroundings.

Secure water storage: Cover tanks, drums, and pails with tight-fitting lids or mosquito-proof mesh.

Maintain cleanliness: Clean and dry containers that can collect water, such as plant saucers and pet bowls, on a daily basis.

Properly dispose of potential breeding sites: Recycle or discard items like old tires, cans, and bottles that can accumulate water.

Additionally, the EcoWaste Coalition cautions against the use of unregistered household insecticides and mosquito repellents, as these products may pose health and environmental risks if not properly vetted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

By collectively adopting these practices, residents can play a pivotal role in controlling the dengue outbreak and safeguarding public health.

Bato’s ‘Divine Mission’ or ICC’s Next Target? Liza Maza Slams Dela Rosa’s Senate Comeback!

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In a recent political exchange, senatorial candidate Liza Maza criticized Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa's assertion that his renewed bid for the Senate is a divine mission to continue the fight against illegal drugs. Maza, a former representative of the Gabriela Party-list, contended that dela Rosa's candidacy is more of a "konsumisyon" (nuisance) than a mission, emphasizing that his true obligation is to answer for his alleged involvement in the controversial war on drugs under former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Dela Rosa, who served as the chief of the Philippine National Police during the height of Duterte's anti-drug campaign, is currently under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for possible crimes against humanity. Despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member. Dela Rosa has consistently dismissed the ICC's authority, stating that there is no need for its intervention given the local convictions of police officers involved in the drug war. 

In a Senate inquiry held in October 2024, former President Duterte admitted to the existence of a "death squad" during his tenure as mayor of Davao City, aimed at controlling crime. This revelation has intensified calls for accountability, with human rights groups documenting approximately 1,400 suspicious killings in Davao during Duterte's 22-year mayoral period. Critics argue that his presidential war on drugs mirrored these methods, resulting in the deaths of more than 6,200 people. 

The current administration has signaled a shift in its stance towards the ICC investigation. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla indicated openness to discussions and potential cooperation with the ICC, marking a significant departure from the previous administration's refusal to acknowledge the court's jurisdiction. Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin further stated that the Philippines would "respond favorably" to any Interpol requests related to the ICC's investigation into the drug war. 

As the 2025 senatorial elections approach, the discourse surrounding accountability for the war on drugs continues to be a polarizing issue. Maza's remarks underscore the growing demand for transparency and justice, while dela Rosa remains steadfast in his defense, framing his candidacy as a continuation of his mission against illegal drugs. The evolving political landscape suggests that the electorate's response to these developments will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation's approach to law enforcement and human rights.

Duterte Sparks Outrage: ‘Kill the Senators’ Remark Shocks the Nation!

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In a recent political rally, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made a controversial remark suggesting the elimination of current senators to create vacancies for his preferred candidates. Speaking at the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) senatorial proclamation event on February 13, 2025, Duterte jested, "Now, there’s many of them. What should we do? Let’s kill the senators now to create vacancies," eliciting laughter from the audience. 

This statement has drawn sharp criticism from various lawmakers and public figures. Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed alarm, stating that such remarks should not be taken lightly and could have serious consequences. 

 Similarly, former Senator Kiko Pangilinan and Senator Hontiveros reacted with concern to Duterte's comments, emphasizing the potential dangers of normalizing violent rhetoric in political discourse. 

Despite the backlash, some of Duterte's allies have downplayed the incident, suggesting that the remarks were made in jest and should not be overanalyzed. This defense, however, has not mitigated the concerns of those who fear that such statements could incite real-world violence or undermine democratic institutions.

This controversy arises amidst significant political turmoil in the Philippines. Just last week, the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte, the former president's daughter, on charges including misuse of public funds and alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials. 

 The impeachment has deepened political divisions and raised questions about the Duterte family's influence in the nation's politics.

The former president's recent comments also bring to mind his previous admissions regarding the use of a "death squad" during his tenure as mayor of Davao City. In a Senate inquiry three months ago, Duterte confirmed the existence of such a squad aimed at controlling crime, a revelation that has been met with both domestic and international condemnation. 

As the nation approaches the upcoming elections, these events underscore the volatile nature of Philippine politics. The interplay of controversial rhetoric, legal proceedings against high-ranking officials, and the enduring influence of political dynasties continues to shape the country's democratic landscape.