MANILA: The Department of Health (DOH) has mobilized PHP133 million in medical and public health emergency supplies, including water sanitation and hygiene kits, to regions most severely impacted by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, also known internationally as Trami. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa confirmed the deployment of resources during a briefing with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang.
According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Herbosa reported that teams from regional offices and hospitals have been dispatched to provide medical assistance, with respiratory infections being the most frequently reported illness in the affected areas. In response, medical teams have distributed face masks and necessary medications. Local government units have also contributed by providing modular tents for families to mitigate the spread of infections.
Herbosa noted damage to several barangay health stations and hospitals due to the storm. Major hospitals such as the Bicol Medical Center and Bicol
Regional Medical Center in Albay remain operational despite power outages and internet server issues. However, some hospitals in Batangas are currently inaccessible due to flooding.
In addition to the medical aid, PHP6.8 million has been allocated for the nutrition of storm victims, while PHP1.8 million is designated for psychosocial support. The DOH has activated Code Blue, its highest health emergency response, in the Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, and Ilocos Region, while maintaining Code White in other regions, including the National Capital Region and Central Luzon.