Stranded patients, staff in Batangas Provincial Hospital await aid amid severe flooding
Metro Manila, Philippines — As severe tropical storm Kristine continues to wreak havoc in Batangas, dozens of patients, caregivers, and staff remain stranded inside the Batangas Provincial Hospital (BPH) in Lemery on Thursday, Oct. 24.
Floodwaters have overwhelmed the hospital’s ward and emergency room, forcing everyone to evacuate to the second floor. According to Jopaii Enriquez, one of the stranded individuals, food supplies are nearly depleted.
“May tinapay naman kaming nakakain pa kaso paubos na din,” (We still have some bread to eat, but it’s running out) Enriquez shared with NewsWatch Plus. Concerns remain about the situation of other individuals, including babies, who may also be running low on food.
In an effort to find more food, Enriquez added that some of them had ventured outside and were fortunate to find a convenience store still operating.
“Bumili [na lang] muna kami ng mga tinapay para may mailaman sa tiyan,” Enriquez added.
(Translation: We bought some more bread to fill our stomachs.)
Earlier social media posts from Enriquez highlighted the challenges they face, with strong winds and torrential rain making it impossible to leave. Debris such as roofing sheets was being blown around, adding to the danger.
The Batangas Provincial Information Office (PIO) reported that as of yesterday the floodwaters had breached the hospital’s first floor, leading to a "No Admission" policy for new patients. Local authorities are coordinating with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and Lemery’s disaster response teams.
No confirmation of any successful rescue or relief has been made as of this writing.
The storm's severity has prompted Governor Hermilando Mandanas to suspend classes across all levels in Batangas for October 25.
Residents are advised to stay safe as strong winds and heavy rain impact the province.
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