Photo courtesy of Joan Bondoc, Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Department of Health (DOH) will deploy about 200 health emergency responders during the Feast of the Black Nazarene procession on January 9.
DOH spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said the number represents the agency’s estimated peak deployment for the annual religious event.
He clarified that the figure may still be adjusted depending on operational requirements as the procession unfolds.
Hospitals operated by the DOH in Metro Manila will be placed on standby to receive patients who may need medical attention during the event.
The agency will also reimpose a Code White Alert in DOH hospitals in Metro Manila as well as in nearby regions in Central and Southern Luzon.
A Code White Alert requires hospitals to be fully prepared for emergencies commonly linked to large gatherings, including fainting, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, and possible mass casualty incidents.
Domingo advised devotees with heart or respiratory illnesses, pregnant women, senior citizens, and young children to avoid joining the procession, and urged participants to bring identification, water, maintenance medicines, and wear comfortable clothing.