BORACAY VETERINARY MISSION RETURNS FOR ITS FIFTH YEAR

By Freida Dario-Santiago

The annual Boracay Veterinary Mission is set to return for its fifth consecutive year, bringing together veterinary professionals and local government partners in a continuing effort to promote responsible pet ownership and keep Boracay rabies-free.

The initiative is organized by the Vet Mission Boracay team in partnership with the LGU Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of Malay. Participating organizations include the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian of Aklan, the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA), and the Philippine Animal Hospital Association (PAHA).

As part of Boracay's goal of becoming a 100% rabies-free island, this year's mission will introduce a new identification system for vaccinated dogs. Through the support of Vet Mission Boracay and Dr. Deyven, dogs that already have collars will receive red vaccination tags, while those without collars will be provided with red collars. The system will make it easier for residents and authorities to identify vaccinated animals.

Organizers also hope to further strengthen animal welfare management on the island by introducing microchip tagging by 2027.

This year's mission will run for four days, beginning in Barangay Yapak and concluding in the Municipality of Malay. Participating veterinarians will remain on-site for an additional day to provide post-operative care and monitor animals that may require further attention following surgery.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the free veterinary services and support the island's ongoing efforts to promote animal health, responsible pet ownership, and rabies prevention.