The Department of Health in Bicol Region (DOH-5) on Wednesday deployed water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) teams to Catanduanes province, which was severely hit by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong).

In an interview, DOH-5 Regional Director Rose Rempillo said the initiative aims to support the delivery of health and nutrition services for evacuees and patients affected by the cyclone.

A total of PHP1.73 million worth of essential medicines and logistics were turned over to the Catanduanes Provincial Health Office (PHO), along with an additional PHP151,636 worth of medicines provided to the local DOH offices.

“Our personnel on the ground continue to assess the damage incurred in the areas. Initially, based on our inspection in Catanduanes, the Eastern Bicol Medical Center (EBMC) is functional with minor damage. Some rural health units have already submitted their reports,” she said.

Rempillo added that the assistance provided is crucial to ensuring timely response and continuous delivery of health services in the affected areas.

Health Facility Enhancement Program teams have also been deployed to Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte and Catanduanes to assess damaged health facilities and facilitate immediate recovery, rehabilitation and the resumption of normal healthcare operations.

An initial PHP100,000 worth of medicines has also been delivered to Camarines Sur to support ongoing response efforts.

Rempillo visited Catanduanes and Camarines Norte on Tuesday and held a briefing with Gov. Patrick Azanza and Acting Gov. Jospeh Ascutia, respectively, to ensure sufficient healthcare services for affected residents. (PNA)