Cops, docs on stand-by in Makati

Makati Mayor Elenita Binay directed yesterday all medical personnel from the Makati Health Department and the Ospital ng Makati to report for work from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1, 2001 as part of preparations for the New Year celebration.

At the same time, Binay ordered Superintendent Jovito Gutierrez, Jr., Makati police chief, to ensure that all the city’s police precincts and fire sub-stations are on full alert to maintain peace and order in the barangays.

"We have to maintain our vigilance and ensure the readiness of our contingency plans for the best interests of the public," Binay said.

City Health Officer Lourdes Salud said that she has organized two rescue and disaster teams that will be assigned in the city’s two districts to help people who need medical assistance. These medical teams will be roving the streets from 7 p.m. of Dec. 31, 2000 to 4 a.m. of Jan. 1, 2001.

Salud said the Makati Emergency Medical Services System (MEMSS) has committed its services in addition to the medical services which will be delivered by the Ospital ng Makati Emergency Department and the Makati Youth Emergency and Rescue Team (MAYERT) headed by Councilor Junjun Binay.

Salud added that the different barangay halls would serve as the primary collection points and first aid stations while ambulances will be provided to ensure prompt delivery of medical services.