All hospitals and health facilities across the Philippines were placed under “Code White” alert last Palm Sunday, April 13, as Filipinos began observing Holy Week.
The alert will remain in effect until Easter Sunday, ensuring that medical staff and facilities are fully prepared to respond to health emergencies, particularly as public activity increases during this religious observance.
“This measure aims to ensure the readiness of health facilities and personnel to respond to any potential health emergencies during this period,” the Department of Health (DOH) said in a statement.
Emergency room and critical care unit personnel have been placed on standby to handle a possible surge in cases stemming from accidents, injuries, and other health-related incidents.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasized that the DOH is monitoring health-related events nationwide and is coordinating with regional and local health offices to maintain a smooth and efficient emergency response.
“We are encouraging everyone to make Holy Week both safe and healthy,” Herbosa said.
He urged travelers and participants in religious activities to stay vigilant, especially with rising temperatures.
To avoid heat stroke, Herbosa advised the public to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
He also reminded everyone to ensure food is properly prepared and stored to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness during the hot summer weather.
Though health services remain accessible, Herbosa reminded Filipinos to observe minimum public health standards and to head to the nearest DOH hospital if needed.
Peace and order
In parallel efforts, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all local government units (LGUs), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to ensure peace and safety throughout the Holy Week.
Interior Undersecretary Omar Romero, in a directive (Memorandum Circular 2025-058), called on local officials, police, and fire authorities to coordinate security, manage traffic, and maintain emergency readiness in areas with high public activity.
Romero ordered deployment of law enforcers, traffic aides, barangay tanods, and other support forces to provide assistance and maintain visibility on roads and in public areas.
Patrols have been heightened in crime-prone locations, while air and seaports, transportation hubs, churches, pilgrimage sites, and other public venues are under tight surveillance.
The BFP was also tasked with sustaining fire safety awareness campaigns and emergency preparedness throughout the observance.
“We call on everyone to do their part in keeping the Holy Week peaceful, safe, and spiritually meaningful,” Romero added.
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