The Department of Health (DOH) said Thursday that all of its hospitals in Metro Manila will be placed on “code white alert” starting Saturday, January 6, in preparation for the return of the traditional Traslacion on January 9, 2024.
With this alert status, identified medical personnel and staff are placed on standby for the immediate acceptance and treatment of incoming patients at hospitals.
The DOH usually declares the code white alert during national events, holidays, or celebrations “that can potentially cause mass casualty incidents or emergencies.”
The agency said eight health emergency response teams, each equipped with ambulances, will be deployed along the Traslacion route to provide emergency medical services to devotees.
These teams will be stationed at the Quirino Grandstand; Roxas Blvd. cor Ayala (National Museum & Fine Arts); Ayla Blvd. cor Taft (PNU); Ayala Blvd. cor San Marcelino; San Sebastian Church with Reachout; Villarica, Quezon Blvd; Quinta Market; and Paterno, Quezon Blvd.
“This strategic deployment aims to ensure prompt and efficient emergency medical assistance, covering significant segments and quadrants to enhance the safety and well-being of all participants throughout the event,” the DOH said.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said that the DOH will help ensure the health and safety of devotees who will participate in the activities for the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
“As we celebrate this significant gathering for the annual feast of the Black Nazarene, our priority is the health and safety of all Filipinos. The activation of Code White Alert and deployment of health emergency response teams underscore our commitment to ensure prompt and efficient medical assistance in case of any medical emergency on the ground,” he said in a statement.
Do’s and don’ts
Less than a week before the procession that is usually attended by thousands of Filipinos, the DOH urged devotees to observe the following:
- Observe the necessary precautions and safety measures during the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene;
- Wear face mask and ensure good airflow;
- Consider participating from home as this celebration leads to crowding that has greater health risk;
- Refrain from touching and kissing the figures and statues due to the risk of transmission of communicable diseases;
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration; and
- Avoid prolonged exposure to heat to prevent the risk of heat stroke.
The Quiapo Church on Wednesday also issued several reminders on what is allowed and prohibited during the conduct of the upcoming Traslacion. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News
