SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) –The Antique Provincial Health Office (APHO) encourages Antiqueños to prioritize their health and safety during the holiday season.
This aligns with the Department of Health’s (DOH) “Ligtas Christmas 2024” campaign.
APHO nurse and Health Education and Promotion Officer Gilyn Oyales emphasized the DOH initiative’s key message, “Ligtas Christmas: Pamilyang Patok at Ligtas,” which focuses on three sub-campaigns: BiyaHealthy (safe and healthy travel), Healthy Handaan (healthy feasts), and Iwas Paputok (firecracker safety).
APHO, in partnership with various organizations, has conducted activities promoting safe and mindful holiday celebrations.
BiyaHealthy emphasized the importance of road safety, highlighting that safe travel is a shared responsibility.
Oyales advised planning trips early, packing lightly, and avoiding alcohol consumption while driving to prevent accidents. She reiterated that ensuring road safety requires everyone’s cooperation.
For holiday feasts, Oyales encouraged moderation in eating, reducing salty and sweet food consumption, and limiting alcohol intake.
She stated, “Kan-un lang natun ang makaya natun kan-un ay raku-raku pa nga selebrasyon ang atun gina-hiwat.”
(We should eat only what we can manage because there are still many celebrations to come).
In addition, PHO encouraged families to opt for safe alternatives to fireworks, to prevent injuries, particularly in non-designated areas. In case of firecracker-related accidents, she recommended having a first-aid kit ready and keeping emergency contact numbers of responders easily accessible.
To ensure firecracker safety, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), inspects vendors to enforce compliance with safety standards.
Through these collective efforts, APHO and its partners aim to ensure a safe and joyful Christmas and New Year celebration for all Antiqueño families. (AGP/PSM/PIA Antique with reports from MPO/GIP)
