The Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol) on Tuesday provided tips to the public for healthy, safe, and secure ways to celebrate the holiday season.
During a press conference at La Roca Veranda here, DOH-5 Assistant Regional Director Dr. Rosa Marie Rempillo said the Ligtas Christmas campaign of the department focused on three key components: Biyahealthy ngayon Pasko (safe travels), Healthy handaan ang salu-salo ng pamilya (healthy feast), and Iwas paputok para kumpleto at ligtas (avoid use of firecrakers).
“(We are) partnering with national government agencies for a safe celebration and the promotion of firecracker prevention. DOH-Bicol wishes us to have peace of mind in the celebration of Christmas by eating healthy and balanced, traveling safely, and avoiding the use of prohibited fireworks,” she said in Filipino.
Rempillo said the campaign aims to enhance health literacy among the public to ensure readiness for health crises and emergencies, and to promote disease prevention through a healthy lifestyle.
DOH-5, she said, reminds the public under the “Biyahealthy” to check vehicle roadworthiness before going on holiday travels and the ‘Blow-Bag-Set, or the battery, lights, oils, water, brake, air, gas, self, engine, and tire.
“Avoid distractions at all costs, especially when on the road. Totally avoid alcohol intake and medication that can cause drowsiness. Check yourself, make sure you have enough sleep, and that you are well rested,” Julie Ann Granadino, DOH-5 senior health program officer, said.
She also reminded drivers not to use mobile devices and other gadgets that can cause distractions.
“Always follow road signs, signals, and traffic rules and regulations. Wear proper helmets, seatbelts, and other protective gear. Recall and dial the emergency numbers when in time of emergency,” she said.
Granadino added that to prevent firework-related incidents, the public can participate in community firework displays in their local community.
“Use safe alternatives instead of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic device alternatives. There are safer alternatives available like “torotot”, drums, lightsticks, and other sound-emitting devices,” she said.
Arlene Reario, National Nutrition Council (NNC) 5 (Bicol) chief, said that under “Healthy Handaan”, the public is advised to maintain healthy eating habits even during the holiday season with all the tempting treats and indulgent meals.
“The public must be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating using smaller plates to help control portion sizes without feeling deprived. Drink plenty of water throughout the day as dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger and limit sugary drinks and alcohol,” she said.
Reario added that aiming for a balanced plate includes a variety of colors and food groups.
“Fill half your plate with vegetables, protein, and whole grains. Pay attention to what you eat and savor each bite, eat slowly, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 (Bicol) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) continue to coordinate with different local government units (LGUs) in the region to ensure existing laws on the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers are implemented under the Iwas Paputok drive. (PNA)
