Philippines: Bicol reports 19 % increase in dengue, Code Blue alert issued

The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) has declared a Code Blue alert across the region on September 18, 2026 following a 19% increase in dengue cases, signaling heightened readiness and mobilization of health resources.

According to the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, a total of 2,167 dengue cases have been recorded from January 1, 2026 to September 5, 2026, marking a 19% rise compared to the same period last year. This has prompted DOH Bicol CHD to activate its emergency response protocols to safeguard communities.

Further, the rising number of cases has strained hospital capacity. As of September 17, 2026, the overall dengue bed utilization rate in the Bicol Region has reached 107%, indicating that the current bed capacity has been exceeded.