The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday announced that it had raised a “Code White” alert as early as October 1 due to the presence of Severe Tropical Storm “Paolo” (international name: Matmo) in the country.
The DOH Central Office issued the alert to prepare hospitals and health facilities for potential emergencies caused by the tropical cyclone.
Under Code White, the DOH Operations Center activated supplies of medicines, medical equipment, and health emergency response teams.
Authorities said the deployment covers regions expected to be directly hit by Paolo, including Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon.
The Health Department confirmed that essential medicines such as antibiotics, fever reducers, and cough treatments are ready for distribution. Health officials likewise prepared oral health care packages, hygiene kits, and clean water supplies to prevent secondary health risks.
Meanwhile, the DOH regional offices in northern and Central Luzon emphasized readiness for both immediate relief and longer-term health needs. Hospitals in the region have been instructed to secure backup power sources and prepare emergency wards.
Authorities said the full impact of the storm on health and infrastructure will be assessed in the coming days.
