Dengue is spreading at an alarming rate in the Philippines. In February, Quezon City officially declared a dengue outbreak after a sharp rise in cases, prompting citywide response efforts.
While the outbreak has since subsided, important questions remain: Why was this year’s outbreak more severe than in previous years? Let’s break down the factors that fueled this surge and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Dengue Cases in Quezon City Spiked More Than 5x Compared to 2024
In their most recent social media update on April 25, 2025, the Quezon City Epidemiology & Surveillance Division (QC ESD) reported a sharp surge in dengue cases this year. From January 1 to April 24, 2025, the total recorded cases were 4,703—that’s more than five times the number during the same period last year. The outbreak has unfortunately claimed 13 lives as of recent posts.
One of the most heartbreaking cases involved an 8-year-old girl who delayed seeking treatment and passed away just days after being hospitalized.
In response, city officials intensified their efforts to spread awareness, particularly in high-risk communities such as daycare centers and schools. QC ESD continues to release updates and safety tips via social media to keep communities aware, even after the peak.
Why Did Dengue Spread Rapidly and Early This Year?
We associate dengue outbreaks with the rainy season, with July being the peak month. But this year, DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo says this came much earlier this year because of climate change—and with that, the dengue problem.
How Climate Change Is Making Dengue Worse
Dr. Tejano of DOH’s Disease Prevention and Control Bureau explains that erratic weather patterns create ideal conditions for Aedes mosquitoes. Alternating periods of rain and dryness speed up their lifecycle, allowing eggs to hatch and larvae to mature faster. At the same time, floodings create breeding grounds, even in small puddles or water collected in plants
But beyond climate change, human activity is also driving the outbreak. Rapid urbanization leads to denser populations, poor drainage, and ineffective waste management, creating more stagnant water where mosquitoes can thrive. Local communities also tend to take a reactive approach, responding only when outbreaks happen instead of focusing on prevention. All these factors make the dengue problem worse.
Sharing Our TRAIN of Thoughts: Could Dehydration Be a Factor
When it’s hot, we naturally drink more water to stay hydrated—but what about mosquitoes? Here’s what our Training and Innovations (TRAIN) Team has to say.
Our resident entomologist explains that high temperatures make the dengue virus multiply inside mosquitoes, turning them infectious sooner. But that’s not all—extreme heat dehydrates female mosquitoes, pushing them to seek out fluids to rehydrate themselves. And we all know their drink of choice: it’s not water, it’s human blood.
There’s also a unique habit that comes with the heat. Many Filipinos store water in large containers during dry seasons to prepare for supply interruptions. While practical, this “Igib” habit unintentionally creates breeding grounds when these containers are left uncovered.
What Our Data Says About the Dengue Problem in the Philippines
Between November 2024 and February 2025, mosquito-related inquiries increased by 60%, with November and February being the highest. Our Quality Assurance Team also recorded a spike in mosquito sightings across Metro Manila, particularly in southern districts like Las Piñas and Pasay.
While Quezon City was the only one to declare an official outbreak, dengue remains a regional concern. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and proactive in preventing mosquito breeding.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
Even though the outbreak’s peak has passed, the Department of Health emphasizes vigilance through the 4S strategy:
- Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites by getting rid of stagnant water.
- Secure Self-Protection by wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent.
- Seek Early Consultation if you experience dengue symptoms for immediate medical care.
- Support Mosquito Treatments in high-risk areas.
Additionally, our entomologist reminds us that dengue mosquitoes prefer clean, stagnant water—not dirty water. They lay their eggs in everyday spots like vases and planters. That’s why covering or emptying them is important.
But mosquito control isn’t a solo effort—it’s a community action. Talk to your neighbors, stay vigilant, and spread the right information. The more people involved, the harder it is for mosquitoes to breed and thrive.
Consider Investing in Expert Mosquito Management
For added protection and peace of mind, ENTECH offers expert mosquito pest control tailored to your property. Our services include misting and mist-blowing to quickly eliminate adult mosquitoes. In addition, we integrate innovative solutions like In2Care Mosquito Traps and Mosquitaire Baiting Systems to keep mosquito populations under control.
More than just treatment and products, we provide Pest Awareness Training to equip you and your team with expert knowledge to sustain results and strengthen your plan for long-term effectiveness.
Your Involvement Has Impact!
The dengue surge may have slowed down, but the fight isn’t over. The fact that you’ve reached the end of this content means you’re already better informed—now it’s time to put that insight into action.
If you want to know more about our mosquito management program, feel free to reach out. We’ll create a customized pest management plan to keep you safe from dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.