A family in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, is mourning the loss of 41-year-old pedicab driver Sammy Reyes who passed away from leptospirosis.

His death came as the region is seeing a spike in the number of leptospirosis cases.

Reyes, a resident of Sitio Capaldua, Brgy. Guiguilonen, initially experienced fever and body aches, which were reportedly mistaken for flu symptoms.

His condition worsened and he experienced difficulty in breathing. He was rushed to the Region 1 Medical Center where he died.

Mario Reyes, Sammy's father, believes that floodwaters outside their home may have caused his son's infection.

"Kasi yung tubig diyan, ilang buwan nang hindi humuhupa, kasi walang dadaluyan diyan... kaya pag malakas ang ulan, mas mataas ang tubig kalsada," Mario said.

The Guiguilonen Barangay Council has already submitted a resolution requesting assistance in building proper drainage in the area to prevent further health risks.

According to the Center for Health Development Region 1 (CHD-1), there are 125 leptospirosis cases recorded in the region as of September 21, with 22 fatalities.

Health officials expect these numbers to rise during the wet season.

Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson for CHD-1, advised the public to take precautions.

"Magsuot ng protection tulad ng bota para hindi tayo ma-expose sa maduming tubig," Bobis said.

Leptospirosis symptoms include high fever, chills, red eyes, jaundice, and tea-colored urine.