Tsunami Alert Triggers Early Patient Evacuation in Cagayan
TUGUEGARAO CITY — Around 50 patients from district hospitals in Cagayan province were swiftly evacuated on Wednesday following a tsunami alert issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The alert came after a powerful earthquake struck Russia, prompting precautionary measures in coastal areas.
Local authorities prioritized safety in low-lying zones, focusing on facilities like Ballesteros District Hospital near the Cagayan Breeding Station. Meanwhile, Aparri Provincial Hospital, Sta. Ana Community Hospital in Santa Ana, and Alfonso Ponce Enrile Memorial District Hospital in Gonzaga remained on standby for possible emergency evacuation.
Coordinated Efforts Ensure Readiness Amid Tsunami Alert
Dr. Rebecca Battung, the provincial health officer of Cagayan, directed hospital administrators to work closely with local disaster risk reduction and management teams. Their goal was to maintain readiness and provide swift responses should the tsunami threat escalate. Other hospitals across the region were also placed on high alert as a precaution.
According to local leaders, the Philippine Coast Guard District in Northeastern Luzon monitored minor wave activity in several coastal towns including Aparri, Gonzaga, Santa Ana, Claveria, and Buguey. Fortunately, these waves remained below one meter, and no casualties or tsunami incidents were reported.
Authorities continue to keep a close watch on the situation to ensure the safety of residents. These early patient evacuations highlight the importance of proactive disaster preparedness in vulnerable areas.
For more news and updates on tsunami alerts and disaster preparedness, visit Filipinokami.com.
