MANILA – In preparation for the influx of travelers during the Lenten season, the Department of Health (DOH) has announced a “code white alert.” This alert, which will be in effect from March 24 to 31, will ensure that medical personnel and staff are on standby to provide immediate care and treatment to patients in hospitals.
A code white alert is typically declared during national events, holidays, or celebrations that have the potential to result in mass casualty incidents or emergencies. With thousands of people expected to travel to provinces starting on Palm Sunday, the DOH is taking proactive measures to ensure the well-being of the public.
The Health Emergency Management Bureau (HEMB) of the DOH will continue to actively monitor the situation. Additionally, the Centers for Health Development in various regions are coordinating with their respective Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices, particularly in tourist attractions and religious areas.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa expressed the DOH’s commitment to the observance of Holy Week 2024, stating, “The DOH family joins all Filipino families in the solemn and healthy observance of Holy Week 2024. Following the instructions of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., hospitals are now on Code White Alert, always ready to care for patients in the event of any medical crisis. Let us pray and hope for continued safety and health for the country.”
Alongside the announcement, the DOH provided important reminders for the public to ensure their well-being during Lent. These include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of clean water, avoiding prolonged exposure to heat, being aware of emerging diseases during the dry season, and supervising children during water activities.
In a separate statement, the DOH also urged motorists to exercise caution and drive safely, as road crashes tend to increase during the Holy Week. They shared several reminders, such as properly maintaining vehicles, ensuring drivers are well-rested, abstaining from alcohol consumption before and during driving, avoiding distractions while driving, obeying traffic rules, and taking regular breaks during long drives.
For urgent reports, the public can contact the DOH HEMB-OpCen via mobile numbers 0917-8059756 or 0917-8619528, landline number (02) 8651-7800 local 2206/2207, or email hembopcen@doh.gov.ph.
DOT Emphasizes Patronizing Accredited Tourism Enterprises
In a related development, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has advised all travelers to ensure that they patronize accredited enterprises. The DOT highlights that travel firms and accommodation establishments accredited by the department guarantee compliance with the minimum standards for quality operation of tourism facilities and services.
Travelers seeking accommodation, tours, transportation, and other tourism-related services are strongly encouraged to choose DOT-accredited tourism enterprises. The public is also urged to stay updated on travel-related news and safety guidelines from credible sources and exercise caution regarding unsolicited messages or offers, particularly from anonymous sources or unverified social media platforms or accounts. This precautionary measure aims to prevent falling victim to scams targeting tourists, including fake accommodation, travel tickets, and vacation deals.
To access the nationwide list of accredited hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, and other tourism enterprises, the public can visit https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/accreditations/#dot-accredited.
For general tourism inquiries, travel complaints, and other emergencies, the DOT Tourist Assistance Call Center is available 24/7. The public can reach out via hotline number 151-TOUR (8687), mobile number 0995-8355155, email address touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph, Facebook messenger at https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism, or web chat at https://philippines.travel/ and https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/.
As the Lenten season approaches and travel activities increase, the DOH and DOT are working together to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. By implementing necessary measures and providing valuable guidance, they aim to make this religious observance and travel experience a positive and secure one for everyone.