MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Saturday, March 28, 2026, that it will activate its “code white alert” status across the country beginning March 30 to prepare for the expected influx of travelers and potential emergencies during the Holy Week.
Under the code white alert, DOH-retained hospitals and health emergency response teams will be placed on 24/7 standby. This status ensures that medical personnel and facilities are ready to respond immediately to road crash incidents, heat-related injuries, and other medical emergencies until April 6, Monday.
With millions of Filipinos expected to head to the provinces or various tourist destinations, health officials are emphasizing personal responsibility alongside the government’s emergency preparations. DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo stressed the importance of self-care during the peak travel season, particularly as temperatures begin to rise.
“Even as DOH is ready to rescue this Holy Week, health and safety begin with you. Stay hydrated as the heat is on: drink seven to eight glasses of clean and plain water a day, except for patients under medical supervision,” Domingo said in an advisory.
The advisory also reminded the public that individuals in need of immediate assistance may contact the nationwide emergency hotline by dialing 911. The DOH’s proactive stance comes as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) forecasts a significant increase in passenger traffic across its 44 commercial airports.
CAAP estimates that approximately 6.5 million passengers will pass through the country’s air hubs during the holiday period, with the peak volume anticipated between March 28 and April 5. This year’s projections follow a trend of increasing domestic movement, which saw an 18 percent jump in passenger numbers last year.|
