Health Department Activates Emergency Operations Center
The Department of Health (DOH) took a critical step on Saturday, November 8, 2025, by officially activating the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) at its Central Office in Manila. This strategic move is a direct response to the impending threat of Typhoon Uwan, which is forecasted to make landfall in the coming days.
Strengthening National and Local Response
In a formal announcement, the DOH clarified the PHEOC's vital role. The DOH Central Office will serve as the primary Emergency Operations Center, establishing a single, unified line of command for all health-related emergencies. This activation is in strict accordance with the mandate of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), to which the PHEOC is directly linked.
The department emphasized that the center's primary objective is to fortify the response mechanisms connecting the national government to local government units. The DOH assures that it will intensify its response to health-related emergencies, such as typhoons, especially now that the PHEOC has been activated, the statement read.
Key Functions and Coordination Efforts
The newly activated PHEOC has been assigned several crucial tasks to ensure an effective emergency response. Its responsibilities include:
- Coordinating with national government agencies, regional offices, hospitals, and local governments.
- Facilitating communication with international partners.
- Ensuring the availability of adequate logistics and necessary budget for all operations.
- Managing the release of vital information that the public needs to know.
- Guaranteeing the welfare and safety of all PHEOC staff members.
This centralized approach aims to streamline efforts and provide a cohesive national strategy as the country braces for the storm.
According to the latest forecasts, Potential super typhoon Uwan is expected to make landfall over southern Isabela or northern Aurora on either late Sunday or early Monday. Residents in these and adjacent areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow all official advisories.
