MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) encourages the use of more forest products in the fight against dengue.
On February 25, 2025, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said that the need for sustainable solutions increases as dengue cases soar.
For example, the Philippine News Agency says people can turn cinnamon bark, pili, and almaciga resins into insect-repelling incense cones.
The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) says they use processed residue from essential oil production and have natural, insect-repelling properties.
Florena Samiano, FPRDI’s Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology program leader, said these incense products emit smoke with creosol and furfural.
Consequently, people may repurpose them as disinfectants, fungicides, and pesticides against mosquitoes and houseflies.
Samiano said further studies are necessary to realize these potential applications.
Nevertheless, she says the project will find ways to convert wastes into valuable products and provide natural alternatives to chemical insect repellants.
“The Philippine forests are replete with natural resources that can help combat dengue and other viral diseases,” FPRDI Director Rico Cabangon said.
“Through DOST-FPRDI’s expertise and years of extensive research on forest products, we continue to harness the potential of wood and non-wood products to address pressing concerns of the nation.”
The Department of Health recorded 15,134 dengue cases from January 19 to February 15, 2025.
Calabarzon, National Capital Region, and Central Luzon have the highest number of cases, with 10,759, 9,302, and 8,652 respectively.