MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) issued a ‘code white alert’ for all hospitals in Metro Manila on Thursday, in preparation for the upcoming Traslacion or Black Nazarene procession.

After a three-year break due to the pandemic, the Black Nazarene procession, known as Traslacion, will resume on January 9, 2024.

A ‘code white’ alert, activated during national events, holidays, or gatherings that could result in mass casualties, ensures that specific medical personnel and staff are on standby at hospitals, ready to receive and treat incoming patients promptly.

“Our priority is the health and safety of all Filipinos during this significant gathering for the annual feast of the Black Nazarene. The activation of the Code White Alert underscores our commitment to provide prompt and efficient medical assistance in case of any medical emergency on the ground,” said DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.

During this period, medical staff are prepared to treat patients promptly. The agency announced the deployment of eight health emergency response teams, each equipped with ambulances, along the route of the Black Nazarene procession to provide emergency medical assistance to devotees attending the Traslacion.

The medical teams will be positioned at various critical points, including the traditional starting point of Traslacion, the Quirino Grandstand, and other specified locations along the route:

• Roxas Blvd. cor Ayala (National Museum & Fine Arts)
• Ayla Blvd. cor Taft (PNU)
• Ayala Blvd. cor San Marcelino
• San Sebastian Church with Reachout
• Villarica, Quezon Blvd
• Quinta Market
• Paterno, Quezon Blvd.

“This strategic deployment aims to provide prompt and efficient emergency medical assistance, covering important segments and quadrants to enhance the safety and well-being of all participants throughout the event,” said the DOH.

Just days before the procession, which typically attracts thousands of Filipino attendees, the DOH advised devotees to follow these guidelines:

• Observe necessary precautions and safety measures during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
• Wear a face mask and ensure good airflow.
• Consider participating from home due to the increased health risk associated with large crowds.
• Refrain from touching and kissing figures and statues to prevent transmission of communicable diseases.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat to prevent heat stroke.

The DOH emphasized the public’s shared responsibility in maintaining a safe environment throughout this culturally significant event.

Sources:(1),(2),(3)

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