The Department of Health in Ilocos Region (DOH-1) is reminding residents to eat moderately during the holiday festivities and ensure their safety on the road and against fireworks-related injuries.

Raymark Perreras, health education and promotion officer of DOH-1, during the virtual press conference hosted by the Philippine Information Agency on Wednesday, said a balanced diet is part of their campaign since cases of hypertension and diabetes are prevalent during the Yuletide season.

He encouraged the public to observe food safety in meal preparations and to have moderate alcohol consumption.

“A reminder from DOH that we should eat in moderation. Most of the staple foods during this time are either salty, sweet, or fatty foods. We should make sure to still have a well-balanced diet,” he said.

Perreras also encouraged the observance of food safety in meal preparations and storage, and to take alcoholic drinks in moderation.

As part of the Ligtas Christmas campaign of the DOH, which will be launched on Dec. 13, Perreras said they also emphasize road safety, noting that cases of road crashes and fireworks-related incidents are also high during this time of the year.

DOH-1 nurse Ethelreina Sugando said the department’s personnel and the hospitals in the region are in full force especially during the Christmas holidays.

The regional office’s surveillance system will start on Dec. 21 to monitor incidents especially fireworks-related injuries.

From Dec. 21, 2023 to Jan. 6, 2024, a total of 230 fireworks related incidents were recorded in the region, up from the around 100 incidents a year ago, Sugando added. (PNA)