Cash for Mosquitoes? The Philippines' Unusual Dengue Prevention Tactic

As Spring approaches and mosquito season looms, an unusual initiative in the Philippines has made headlines: village officials are offering cash rewards to residents for catching mosquitoes in an effort to curb rising dengue cases.

In the village of Addition Hills, near Manila, locals recently lined up with plastic cups and bags full of mosquitoes, receiving one Philippine peso (roughly 1.7 US cents) for every five captured insects. While the scheme aims to reduce the mosquito population, it has sparked debate over its effectiveness.

Dengue cases in the Philippines have surged by 40% compared with last year, with more than 28,000 reported in January alone. In response, officials have been looking for creative solutions. However, some experts and social media users worry that offering monetary incentives might lead to unintended consequences—such as mosquito farming for profit.

Despite the controversy, this unusual campaign highlights the critical need for mosquito control, especially in warmer months when populations spike. While eliminating standing water and using natural repellents remain the best strategies for preventing bites, the Philippines’ bold approach raises an important question: how far should communities go to combat mosquito-borne diseases?

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