DOH-8 Urges Public to Guard Against Extreme Heat, Water Shortages Amid El Niño

Posted on October 13, 2026 at 5:25 PM

Tacloban City — The Department of Health in Eastern Visayas (DOH-8) has urged residents to take precautions against extreme heat and possible water shortages as El Niño raises concerns over public health.

In an interview on October 13 during the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) Symposium at Summit Hotel, DOH-8 Regional Director Exuperia Sabalberino reminded the public to drink enough water, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

She also advised residents to limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and seek shade or cooler places to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Children, older adults, and people with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable and should take extra precautions during periods of extreme heat.

Sabalberino also warned that prolonged dry conditions could lead to water shortages and sanitation problems, potentially increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.

To help prevent these risks, households are encouraged to conserve water and store it in clean, covered containers to avoid contamination. Properly covering stored water can also prevent mosquitoes from breeding and spreading diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.

DOH-8 reminded the public to maintain proper hygiene and follow health advisories as the region prepares for the possible effects of El Niño.

Photo by: Jazmin Bonifacio | Vanguard