First Aid Station Ready to Serve Fiesta Señor Devotees

CEBU, Philippines — Despite the intense heat, thousands of devotees participated in the Solemn Foot Procession yesterday, Jan. 18, 2025, marking the eve of the Fiesta Señor celebration. The procession began at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu and passed through major streets in Cebu City.

But with the main Fiesta Señor celebration set today, more devotees and tourists are expected to join the festivities amid the same sweltering weather, as per the report of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

To address the challenges of rising heat and large crowds, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu has collaborated with various groups and organizations to maintain order, ensure safety, and provide medical assistance to participants.

To safeguard the health and safety of devotees, first aid stations have been set up in and around the Basilica compound.

Among these is the Unilab First Aid Station, strategically located and staffed by medical professionals and volunteer medical students to attend to patients experiencing discomfort or dealing with medical conditions requiring immediate or initial treatment.

“Just this morning (Jan. 18) at 5 AM, we started with our first aid station; we catered to all our patients who had medical conditions that needed medical treatment. Together with the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu and Unilab, the medical team is also helping in this first aid station in regards to all the devotees who are attending the Sinulog,” said Dr. Michael Garcia, one of the medical volunteers at the Unilab First Aid tent.

Dr. Garcia shared that one of the most common cases their first aid station and medical team handled yesterday was elevated blood pressure.

He further noted that they also attended to cases of hypertension, stomachaches, muscle pain, nausea, dizziness, minor cuts, and bruises.

Dr. Garcia assured the public that the station is fully equipped with essential first aid supplies to provide prompt care for those in need. Additionally, an ambulance is on standby for patients requiring more intensive medical attention.

He advised individuals with high blood pressure attending the Fiesta Señor and Sinulog festivities to take their medication, stay hydrated, and eat their meals on time.

Garcia also recommended that pregnant women, parents with young children, and elderly individuals avoid crowded places to reduce the risk of contracting the flu.

Authorities and medical teams have reminded everyone to remain vigilant about their health and the environment as crowds gather to celebrate.

Preparations and precautions aim to create a safer experience for everyone, encouraging responsible celebration to protect not only oneself but others as well. — (FREEMAN)