The Department of Health (DoH) has raised the Code White Alert in preparation for the expected influx of people visiting cemeteries and provinces during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

A Code White Alert means all public hospitals and health facilities are ready to respond to potential health emergencies during events such as holidays or natural disasters.

On Friday, 31 October, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa personally inspected the emergency tents set up along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

Herbosa assured that doctors and emergency responders are deployed along the SLEX to assist Undas travelers.

He said emergency responders are ready to provide medicines, first aid, minor surgical procedures, consultations, and diagnostic services such as glucose testing and blood pressure monitoring.

Ambulances deployed

Two ambulances are also on standby for the immediate transfer of patients who need to be brought to hospitals, according to Herbosa.

“We’re on what you call ‘alert status’ because every year, this is when Filipinos travel back home to their families and loved ones to visit their relatives in cemeteries,” Herbosa said.

“As your Health Secretary, I remind you not to forget your anti-hypertensive medicines, anti-diabetic medicines, as you travel. Also, don’t forget to eat,” he added.

Herbosa advised the public to expect heavy traffic jams as “almost all Filipinos are rushing to go home to the provinces.”

“Don’t rush. Give way and practice road courtesy. We will all get home,” he added.

The Health chief also advised those experiencing influenza-like illnesses to stay at home.