SEN. Bong Go has called on the government to step up preparations for the public health impact of a potentially stronger El Niño.
Go urged the Department of Health (DOH), local government units and health facilities to ensure the availability of medicines, potable water, cooling implements, and health personnel as the country expects prolonged dry spells and severe heat.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned on Sept. 23 that a strong El Niño could intensify into a “very strong” episode toward the end of 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027. The phenomenon is expected to increase the likelihood of below-normal rainfall, dry spells and drought, along with warmer-than-usual temperatures.
The DOH has warned that prolonged heat exposure can lead to dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and potentially fatal heat stroke. Water shortages and deteriorating sanitation could also increase the risk of waterborne, food-borne and vector-borne diseases.
“Not everyone has access to air conditioning or cold water. That is why barangay-level health centers must always be prepared — stocked with water and medicines, and staffed by nurses or health workers who can be approached for help,” Go said, noting preparedness should reach rural health units.
The DOH said its regional offices have begun prepositioning medicines, water-treatment supplies and other emergency health commodities ahead of worsening El Niño conditions. In Mimaropa, health authorities have deployed more than P3.4 million worth of medicines and water and sanitation supplies, while other regions have intensified disease surveillance.
Go cited the importance of community-based primary care in detecting and treating illnesses early, before patients require costly hospitalization.
