BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — In efforts to ensure a safe and peaceful Semana Santa 2025, the Health Emergency Management Unit of the Department of Health (DOH)-Cordillera, in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), is reminding the public about safety for both communities and travelers this Holy Week.
“OPLAN Semana Santa Lakbay Alalay 2025” is being observed from April 13-20, 2025, to raise awareness for the safety of the community and travelers, said Jethro Simeon of DOH-Cordillera.
With the expected influx of visitors to Baguio City and the provinces, the public is advised to stay alert and be safe, especially when traveling.
Simeon said that, based on the DOH health emergency reporting system, there were 26 road-related accidents in the region from January to March 2025, mostly attributed to human error, miscalculations and alcohol intoxication.
He emphasized BLOWBAGETS+D, a checklist that all drivers should follow to ensure that they are in good condition to drive and that their vehicles are safe for the road. This stands for battery, lights, oil, water, brake, air, gas, engine, tire and self, and the D stands for documents like travel manifests, valid driver’s license and other relevant permits.
“Checking these areas or items before hitting the road can effectively decrease the chances of accidents,” he stressed.
Simeon also stressed the importance of preparing a “Go bag,” which contains emergency or essential items needed to survive for at least 72 hours while away from home. It includes a first-aid kit, medicines, non-perishable food, a lighter or flint, a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries, a portable radio, a tent, a blanket, personal hygiene items, tools and supplies, and water, among other things.
“Why do we need Go bags during Semana Santa? Because increased travel and gatherings may increase the risk of accidents, related illnesses or natural disasters, and quick evacuation might be necessary in unfamiliar areas,” he explained.
Simeon also shared other health and safety reminders, such as observing minimum public health standards, knowing the environmental hazards of places to visit, checking the policies and guidelines of the places you plan to visit, and following home safety tips.
The DOH-Cordillera Health Emergency Operation Center and Regional Patient Navigation and Referral Unit is open 24/7. It can be contacted by mobile phone at 0920-938-2585, by email at [email address removed] and on Messenger at Doh Car Hems. (JDP/MAWC-PIA-CAR)
