The Department of Health (DOH) announced that all its medical facilities are fully prepared in case a major earthquake—dubbed “The Big One”—strikes Metro Manila and nearby regions.
According to Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, all DOH hospitals have the capacity to increase their bed capacity by 10% and implement contingency plans to continue serving patients during a large-scale disaster.
He added that hospitals located within the Four Quadrants of the NCR have adequate surge capacity, emergency supplies, and medical personnel ready for rapid deployment.
Among the key preparations made by the DOH include the establishment of evacuation areas, installation of power backup systems, and a coordinated emergency response framework across all hospitals nationwide.
“Part of our strengthened disaster preparedness efforts is ensuring that every life is protected when ‘The Big One’ hits,” Secretary Herbosa said.
The DOH reaffirmed its commitment to maintain operational readiness, emphasizing that preparedness and coordination remain vital in minimizing casualties and ensuring continuous medical services during major calamities.