The Department of Health (DOH) will place all DOH hospitals in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Code White Alert starting January 6, 2024, in preparation for the annual Traslacion, or Feast of the Black Nazarene, on January 9, 2024.
The Code White period for the Traslacion will be from January 5 to 11, 2024.
Code White Alert is declared during national events, holidays, or celebrations that can potentially cause mass casualty incidents or emergencies, and identified medical personnel and staff are placed on standby for the immediate acceptance and treatment of incoming patients at the hospitals.
In a statement, the DOH said that as part of the preparedness strategy, eight health emergency response teams, each one equipped with ambulances, will be strategically deployed along the Traslacion route and stationed at key locations such as Quirino Grandstand, Roxas Blvd. corner Ayala (National Museum & Fine Arts), Ayla Blvd. corner Taft Avenue (Philippine Normal University), Ayala Blvd. corner San Marcelino Street, San Sebastian Church with Reachout, Villarica, Quezon Blvd., Quinta Market, and Paterno, Quezon Blvd.
These teams will provide advanced emergency medical services to the thousands of devotees expected to participate in the event. Their strategic deployment aims to ensure prompt and efficient emergency medical assistance, covering significant segments and quadrants to enhance the safety and well-being of all participants throughout the event, the DOH said.
As a reminder for this big event that will return to its face-to-face status after a three-year break due to the pandemic, the DOH strongly urges the public to: (1) Observe the necessary precautions and safety measures during the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene; (2) wear face mask and ensure good airflow; (3) Consider participating from home as this celebration leads to crowding that has greater health risks; (4) Refrain from touching and kissing the figures and statues due to the risk of transmission of communicable diseases; (5) Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration; and (6) Avoid prolonged exposure to heat to prevent the risk of heat stroke.
“As we celebrate this significant gathering for the annual feast of the Black Nazarene, our priority is the health and safety of all Filipinos. The activation of Code White Alert and deployment of health emergency response teams underscore our commitment to ensure prompt and efficient medical assistance in case of any medical emergency on the ground. Let us join hands in safeguarding the well-being of our fellow Filipinos during this cherished cultural event, dahil Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay ay Mahalaga,” said DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.