Malaybalay City passes ordinance regulating bamboo use to prevent dengue

The City Council of Malaybalay City in Bukidnon has passed an ordinance regulating the use of bamboo to prevent dengue, requiring residents and businesses to drill holes or cut bamboo to prevent water accumulation.

City Ordinance 1050, authored by Councilor Melchor Maramara and sponsored by Councilor Kathleen Pagaling, was approved on February 4, 2025.

The ordinance mandates that bamboo used for fences, posts, or decorations must be drilled above the node to prevent rainwater accumulation, which can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Last year, Malaybalay City recorded nearly 1,000 dengue cases while Bukidnon province reported around 5,000.

Violators face penalties ranging from PHP500 and one day of community service to PHP2,000 and five days of community service for the third offense, with potential cancellation of business licenses.

Barangay officials are responsible for monitoring compliance and instructing residents on proper bamboo usage.