Go urged the Department of Health (DOH), local government units and health facilities to ensure that communities have access to safe drinking water, medicines, cooling measures and health workers, particularly in areas expected to experience prolonged dry conditions.
PAGASA earlier warned that the ongoing strong El Niño could intensify into a “very strong” event toward the end of 2026 and continue into the first half of 2027, potentially bringing below-normal rainfall, dry spells, drought and warmer-than-usual temperatures.
The senator stressed that preparations should focus not only on hospitals but also on rural health units, barangay health stations and other primary care facilities, which serve as the first line of defense during health emergencies.
He also pointed to the importance of early detection and prevention, particularly for senior citizens, children, outdoor workers, people with existing health conditions and low-income families who may have limited access to air conditioning and other ways to cope with extreme heat.
Go cited government investments in Super Health Centers as part of efforts to bring primary healthcare, diagnostics and early disease detection closer to communities. More than 700 centers have secured funding through collaborative efforts involving Go, fellow lawmakers, the DOH and local governments.
He likewise highlighted the Malasakit Centers program and the Regional Specialty Centers Act as measures aimed at making medical assistance and specialized healthcare more accessible, particularly to patients outside Metro Manila.
Go urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, observe proper food and water safety, remove mosquito breeding sites and seek medical attention when experiencing serious symptoms.
He emphasized that sustained coordination among the DOH, PAGASA, LGUs and other government agencies will be crucial in protecting communities as the country faces potentially worsening El Niño conditions.
Senator Bong Go
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