THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region is urging residents to celebrate Christmas responsibly by practicing healthy lifestyle habits, ensuring road safety, and refraining from the use of firecrackers.
This call is in support of the national campaign “Ligtas Christmas, Magdiwang nang Healthy at Ligtas,” which promotes healthy choices, injury prevention, and safe travel during the busy holiday season.
“Christmas is a time of joy and togetherness, but it should also be a time when we protect our health and safety and by ceelebrating responsibly helps ensure that the holidays remain meaningful and free from preventable harm.” Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stated.
As part of the campaign, DOH Ilocos encourages the public to observe Tamang Pagkain, Ehersisyo, at Disiplina, particularly by avoiding overindulgence in the “4Ms”—matamis, maalat, mataba, at mamantika—which can worsen hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
“Moderation in eating and drinking, staying active, and practicing proper food handling can help families stay healthy and truly enjoy the season,” Sydiongco added.
With increased holiday travel expected, DOH Ilocos also emphasized road safety under the “BiyaHealthy” initiative. Motorists are reminded to avoid driving while intoxicated or fatigued, use seatbelts and DTI-approved helmets, and ensure vehicle readiness through the BLOW-BAG-SET check.
The regional health office likewise renewed its call for a firecracker-free Christmas under the “Iwas Paputok” advocacy, warning against serious injuries such as burns, eye trauma, and amputations—many of which affect children.
“No celebration is worth risking a life. We encourage families and communities to choose safer alternatives such as organized fireworks displays or simple noise-makers,” Sydiongco stressed.
All public health facilities in the region will be on Code White alert from December 18, 2025, to January 5, 2026, to respond to emergencies. Zero-balance billing remains in effect in DOH hospitals during this period.
“A healthy and safe Christmas is a shared responsibility. The best gift we can give our families this season is good health, safety, and peace of mind,” Sydiongco concluded.
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