Manila: Road emergency teams have set up stations along expressways and other major thoroughfares as thousands of Filipinos travel to the provinces to vote for the midterm elections on May 12. The Department of Health (DOH) announced that health posts from various hospitals are set up at the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) to respond to medical emergencies and accidents.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa urged the public to exercise caution while traveling for the elections. In a news release, Herbosa emphasized the importance of ensuring both personal and vehicular readiness before embarking on journeys. He also reassured the public of the DOH's preparedness to address medical emergencies through health post stations along the expressways.
In case of health emergencies, the public is advised to contact Emergency 911 or the DOH Hotline 1555 (Press 2). The emergency teams stationed along NLEX and SLEX consist of responders from several medical centers including East Avenue Medical Center, Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, and Quirino Memorial Medical Center, among others.
On Monday, the DOH will extend its efforts by establishing health posts in polling centers to provide medical services and first aid to voters. The department has declared a Code White alert from May 11 to 14 to enhance coordination among health facilities nationwide.
Herbosa stated these measures align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure that emergency response capabilities are ready in all regions during the election period.
