The Department of Health (DOH) announced that it has prepositioned P33.6 million worth of health commodities in 11 regions in preparation for Typhoon Uwan.

The regions of Ilocos, Cagayan, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, the Cordillera Administrative Region, and the Negros Island Region have received essential supplies, including medicines and hygiene kits, for emergency and disaster response.

In a video message, DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa assured that the agency remains committed to providing medical assistance to those affected by Typhoon Tino in Western, Eastern, and Central Visayas, as well as in parts of Mimaropa, even as Typhoon Uwan threatens areas in North, South, and Central Luzon.

Herbosa said he has mandated the uninterrupted delivery of emergency healthcare services through the proper rotation of health personnel in hospitals and evacuation centers.

"Unaffected areas are on standby because the affected areas are already preparing for the impact of the typhoon. These unaffected areas, such as those in Mindanao, must deploy and assist their health personnel in the Visayas," he said in Filipino.

"In Northern Luzon, I'm hoping Metro Manila hospitals will respond," he added.

Herbosa also advised regional offices to stockpile necessary supplies such as medicines and fuel in case of power interruptions and to implement a staffing schedule for medical responders.

"There needs to be an important rotation of who will be on duty," he emphasized.

He also reminded the public to follow the guidance of local government units.

"If you need to evacuate, evacuate now. Prepare a Go Bag. And very importantly, if you belong to the vulnerable sector, such as children or the elderly, it is best to move to a safer location so that you will not be trapped and rescue teams can reach you more easily," he added.

Typhoon Uwan entered the Philippine area of responsibility on Friday evening, 7 November.