With the tensions between Ukraine and Russia, Aksyon Demokratiko’s vice presidential bet Dr. Willie Ong on Wednesday said the Philippine government should also prepare for radiation emergency.

“In other countries, ready na sila sa nuclear threat. Meron silang fallout shelter or basement. Tayo, walang preparation sa ganito. Milyong Pilipino ang pwede mamatay at magkasakit sa radiation poisoning (Other countries are prepared for this. They have a fallout shelter or basement. The Philippines does not have one. Million Filipinos may die or fall ill from radiation poisoning),” he said in a statement.

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes radiation emergencies as non-routine situations where there is a release of radiation or risk of exposure. It could be accidental or deliberate when caused by terrorists.

Radiation emergencies include dirty bombs, nuclear power plant accidents, nuclear weapon explosions, radiological exposure devices, over-exposure to radiation in healthcare facilities, and transportation accidents involving radiation.

“Why do we need this? With the cold war, there is a small chance of the use of nuclear weapons if the war between Russia and Ukraine escalates. Russia has already taken over the Chernobyl nuclear plant,” Ong said.

The Philippines, he said, should prepare for nuclear fallout from neighboring countries that have active nuclear plants. Nuclear fallout is the residual radioactive material propelled into the atmosphere following a nuclear blast. It also refers to radioactive dust from nuclear explosions.

Ong, a cardiologist, said children and elderlies should take potassium iodide to protect their thyroid when there is a nuclear explosion.

He added that the government should have in its supply reserve 130 mg of potassium iodide tablets.

The social media savvy doctor said the national government should purchase 130 mg of potassium iodide tablets for its reserve supply.

“Other countries have already distributed radiation emergency kits containing potassium iodide tablets, radiation detectors, wipes, and plastic bags,” the running mate of Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said.

He added that the public could also prepare for nuclear threats by strengthening or re-engineering their houses.

Ong is urging the public to stay inside their houses and stay tuned when there is nuclear emergency. (PNA)