MALVAR, Philippines – Officials of Malvar town in Batangas province have declared a state of calamity in the town because of an alarming number of dengue cases in the municipality. 

A total of 58 dengue cases have been recorded in the town from January to August this year, according to municipal health officer Dr. Lou Jarigue.

One has died from the illness. 

The number is still relatively low compared to other areas in the provinces such as Lipa City that has 535 dengue cases, San Jose (153), and Batanga City (243).

Health officials, however, said Malvar does not have a hospital and proper medical facilities to deal with the outbreak. 

Most of the dengue victims need to be brought to the Laurel District Hospital in Tanauan City to get treatment. 

Dr. Myrin Duque, Laurel District Hospital director, said the medical facility has trouble meeting the needs of all patients.

Duque said the hospital only has 25 beds while patients’ numbers reach up to 70 at any given time. 

Malvar officials said the state of calamity declaration will free up funds to be used to fight the outbreak.  – with a report from Ernie Manio, ABS-CBN Southern Tagalog