FOLLOWING the rise in rabies-related deaths, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has increased its Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) package from P3,000 to P5,850.
This move aims to ensure better access to life-saving post-exposure treatment and support the country’s rabies prevention efforts.
The Department of Health (DOH) reported that all 426 recorded rabies cases in the Philippines in 2024 resulted in deaths.
Nearly half of these cases were caused by bites from domestic pets, with more than half of those animals having an unknown vaccination records.
PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado urged members to seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by any animal, regardless whether it is a pet or a stray.
“We encourage our members not to hesitate to seek medical attention if they are bitten or scratched by an animal, whether it is a pet or not. Rabies is a deadly disease, but it can be prevented if vaccinated promptly,” said Mercado.
Recognizing the urgent need to strengthen rabies prevention, PhilHealth assured that the increased ABT package covers essential post-exposure prophylaxis, including rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin for immediate protection.
The package also includes local wound care, tetanus toxoid and anti-tetanus serum, antibiotics, and necessary medical supplies such as syringes, alcohol, and antiseptics.
The increase in financial assistance also comes as the country observes National Rabies Awareness Month.
The Philippines ranks sixth worldwide in rabies incidence, with 60,000 to 70,000 deaths reported globally each year.
From Jan. 1 to March 1, 2025, the DOH has already recorded 55 rabies cases in the country.
Mercado emphasized that its ABT package is available in over 700 accredited providers nationwide, with plans to expand further.
However, Mercado reminded the public that the first line of defense against rabies is the vaccination of pets.
He called on pet owners to ensure that their animals are properly vaccinated as part of the nationwide campaign for a rabies-free Philippines. / CAV