Preparedness saves lives
Citing Department of Health (DOH) protocols, PhilCare outlined seven essential categories that every household should include in their go bags: first aid kits, food and water, important documents, hygiene supplies, basic clothing, technical equipment, and emergency cash.
“Earthquakes strike without warning, and having a go bag ensures you are ready to leave quickly with essential items for safety and survival,” said Dr. Eilyn Evora-Ayuste, medical director at PhilCare.
Ayuste, in a press release, stressed that readiness today could “make a big difference tomorrow,” noting that preparedness protects families by ensuring critical supplies are always within reach.
Constant risk in the Ring of Fire
Situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) records an average of 20 tremors daily—most minor, but with the looming threat of a destructive quake that could cripple urban centers.
The timing of PhilCare’s advisory is crucial, as the country also braces for La Niña conditions until early 2026, which may bring heavy rains, floods, and landslides—compounding risks in quake-stricken areas.
Health and safety essentials
PhilCare’s recommended first aid supplies include alcohol, povidone-iodine, wound ointments, paracetamol, mefenamic acid, band aids, and maintenance medicines for those with chronic illnesses.
“Our members with chronic conditions face a double threat—immediate danger from the quake, and disrupted access to their daily medications,” Ayuste warned.
Beyond medicine, the company emphasized safeguarding vital documents like birth certificates, IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in waterproof containers. PhilCare also promotes a dual-documentation strategy—keeping both physical and digital copies through its Member Gateway platform, ensuring continuity even if papers are lost or destroyed.
Tech tools and telemedicine support
For communication and information, go bags should include a fully charged phone, power bank, and a battery-operated radio for updates when cellular networks fail. Emergency cash is also critical, as ATMs and card systems often go offline during disasters.
PhilCare reminded members that its telemedicine services, DigiMed and DigiMed PLUS, remain accessible even during calamities, enabling remote medical consultations when hospitals are overwhelmed.
A holistic approach to safety
PhilCare president and CEO Jaeger L. Tanco said earthquake preparedness is part of the company’s broader mission to protect members’ overall well-being.
“True healthcare goes beyond treating illness—it’s about protecting our members from all health threats, whether from disease or disaster,” Tanco said. “Preparedness is part of being truly healthy.”
In emergencies, Filipinos can reach the DOH Emergency Hotline 911 or 1555 (press 3) for coordination and assistance. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
