Malacañang announced Wednesday that the Department of Health (DOH) has placed all public hospitals and health facilities on "Code White" alert, ensuring their readiness and that personnel are prepared to respond to potential health emergencies, particularly heatstroke, during the Lenten season.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the high readiness status began on 13 April and will remain in effect until Easter Sunday.
“Let me say that the Department of Health has declared Code White on all our hospitals. That means they are ready for all the incidents that can happen to people traveling for this Holy Week,” he said.
Herbosa also advised the public to take precautions when engaging in activities that could lead to heat illness.
The Code White Alert indicates the readiness of hospitals, particularly the availability of general and orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists, operating room nurses, ophthalmologists, and otorhinolaryngologists (eye, ear, nose, and throat specialists), to respond to emergencies at any time.
Herbosa strongly advised those going outdoors to apply sunscreen, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
He also urged individuals with extremely high body temperature to cool down immediately, noting that symptoms of heat-related illness include intense thirst and cold sweats.
He emphasized that the elderly and children are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat.
As a precaution against drowning, Herbosa stressed the importance of closely supervising family and friends, especially in vacation spots with beaches and swimming pools.
He also cautioned the public against drinking alcohol and texting while driving, and urged everyone to always follow traffic rules.