Medical Assistance to Voters During May 2025 Elections
On Election Day in May 2025, a total of 7,086 individuals sought medical assistance while casting their votes. The Philippine Red Cross deployed resources nationwide to ensure voters received prompt care. This medical assistance to voters effort covered a wide range of health concerns, from minor ailments to serious conditions.
Breakdown of Medical Cases
Out of those who needed help, six were transported to hospitals for urgent care. Fourteen patients were classified as major cases, while 117 were minor cases. Meanwhile, 6,949 people had their vital signs checked to monitor their health during the voting process.
Common Ailments Among Voters
Those admitted to hospitals experienced symptoms such as body weakness, chest pain, dizziness, headaches, lacerations, and shortness of breath. Major cases included more severe conditions like seizures, fainting, asthma attacks, loss of consciousness, fever, and vomiting.
Minor cases involved abdominal pain, abrasions, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, fainting, heat exhaustion, lacerations, nosebleeds, swelling, and vomiting. These symptoms demonstrate the wide range of health challenges faced by voters on election day.
Deployment of Medical Resources to Voters
To provide medical assistance to voters efficiently, the Philippine Red Cross mobilized 2,260 volunteers, set up 291 first aid stations, and dispatched 178 ambulances. They also operated 85 welfare desks and 15 service vehicles across the country. Many of these stations were established in schools serving as polling centers, ensuring immediate access to care.
Tragic Incident During Election Day
Despite these efforts, a 65-year-old man passed away after losing consciousness inside a polling precinct in Oas, Albay. Police confirmed the cause of death was a heart attack at 6:05 a.m. while the man was voting.
According to reports, Nestor Rensales had just finished casting his vote in Barangay Ilaor Sur when he suddenly felt dizzy and informed his wife. Shortly after, he lost consciousness. Although he received first aid on-site and was rushed to the provincial hospital in Ligao City, he was declared dead upon arrival by the attending doctor.
Ensuring Voter Safety Through Medical Assistance to Voters
The medical assistance to voters initiative highlights the importance of preparedness during large public events like elections. With thousands of people gathered and the stress of voting, health incidents can arise unexpectedly. The coordinated effort of volunteers and medical teams played a crucial role in attending to the public’s needs promptly.
For those looking to stay updated on election health and safety, more information is available at Filipinokami.com.