Written b Angeli Abigail Naranja and Marilyn M. Tomilas
Photographs courtesy of Glendy Veloria Caser
The University of Baguio (UB) School of Natural Sciences (SNS), through its Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program, reinforced its commitment as a key public health partner during the Dengue Summit 2026, held on July 16, 2026, at the Venus Parkview Hotel.
Carrying the theme “Unity in Action: One Health, One Baguio, One Dengue-Resilient Community,” the summit was organized by the City Government of Baguio through the City Health Services Office – Environmental Health and Sanitation Division (EHSD). The event brought together representatives from local government units, healthcare institutions, academic institutions, and civil society organizations to strengthen collaboration and develop sustainable, long-term strategies for dengue prevention and vector control.
Embracing Innovation: The Wolbachia Project Pilot
During the summit, Mayor Benjamin Magalong highlighted Baguio City as one of the first pilot sites in the Philippines for the Wolbachia Project. This innovative biological vector control strategy introduces the naturally occurring Wolbachia bacteria into Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, significantly reducing their ability to transmit the dengue virus.
As the implementation of the project will take time to achieve its full impact, the summit emphasized that Baguio residents must continue practicing the Department of Health’s 4S Strategy for dengue prevention:
- Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites.
- Secure self-protection measures.
- Seek early consultation.
- Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas.
A Strong Partner in Public Health and SDG 3
UB’s active participation in the summit reflects its strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being), particularly Target 3.3, which aims to end epidemics of communicable and vector-borne diseases such as dengue.
As an official member of the Baguio City Anti-Mosquito-Borne Diseases Committee (BCAMBDC), the UB SNS Medical Laboratory Science Program continues to serve as a valuable partner in the city’s vector control initiatives. Through a formal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the City Government of Baguio, the school’s public health faculty members and students actively participate in vector surveillance activities, applying their laboratory and public health competencies to support evidence-based dengue prevention efforts throughout the city’s communities.
Through its scientific expertise, strong community partnerships, and sustained commitment to vector surveillance, the UB SNS MLS program remains fully prepared to support Baguio City’s transition toward innovative dengue control strategies, contributing to a healthier and more dengue-resilient community.
In recognition of these efforts, the University of Baguio – School of Natural Sciences was awarded a Certificate of Recognition for its valuable service and active involvement in promoting dengue prevention, public health awareness, and community engagement. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of UB–SNS to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, through meaningful partnerships, scientific excellence, and community service.
