PHOTO: Official website of PCO
PILI, Camarines Sur — The Department of Health (DOH), led by Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, is deploying additional medical teams to aid Bicol communities affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami), following directives from President Marcos, Jr.
Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cesar Chavez confirmed via Viber message to the Inquirer on Monday that 39 doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals would be airlifted via C-130 aircraft to Naga City General Hospital.
In addition, 52 medical personnel will travel by land to support the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center in Cabusao, Camarines Sur.
The Department of Public Works and Highways will provide transport, with DOH ambulances joining the convoy, equipped with essential medical supplies.
The response team includes the members of the WHO-recognized Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Teams, with personnel from Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital, Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital, and other hospitals nationwide.
Disaster response systems for health are operational and in place,” said Herbosa, an expert in trauma and disaster medicine.
He added: “DOH stands ready to support the aid efforts directed by President Marcos Jr. for Bicol and other affected areas. We are committed to our promise, ‘bawat buhay mahalaga’—no one will be left behind.” INQ