The Manila Health Department (MHD) has ordered all six city-run hospitals and 44 health centers to immediately conduct awareness training and drills to prepare personnel for a major earthquake.

MHD head Dr. Grace Padilla, who also directs the Ospital ng Maynila, issued the directive to ensure preparedness is key to protecting patients and staff during calamities.

Padilla cited that recent earthquakes in other areas have severely affected hospital functions, underscoring the need for better readiness. She stressed that to protect patients, staff must first be equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves so they can be available to provide care.

The city’s 44 health centers are also expected to be on high alert during emergencies to assist the hospitals.