'Rat attack' on baby triggers citywide cleanup in Pasay

A "rat attack" that seriously injured a one-year-old baby boy in Pasay City last weekend has triggered a citywide cleanup drive in the city's residential areas. Radio dzBB reported Tuesday that Pasay City mayor Wenceslao "Peewee" Trinidad ordered the cleanup after learning of the plight of baby Roberto "Obet" Estrella Jr. Trinidad said that while it is the responsibility of homeowners to make sure their houses are clean, he wants the citywide cleanup drive to prevent any possible epidemic. He also offered financial assistance to the victim's family, after Obet's mother Juvy sought assistance for his mounting medical bills. Q-11 television reported Monday night that Baby Obet remained in critical condition at the Pasay City General Hospital after surviving an attack by rats inside his shanty last Friday. Roberto's mother Juvy said she left him inside their house at Zamora St., Pasay City, at about 8 p.m. to do laundry work. She said she left him in the care of his 10-year-old cousin. When she returned an hour later, she saw Roberto alone in the house, rats already feasting on him. His cousin reportedly went outside to play and watch television. She said Roberto suffered deep cuts in the knees and arms. The injuries were so severe that the bone was exposed, she said. Dr. Richard Santos of the Pasay City General Hospital said the boy was rushed to the intensive care unit where he was given anti-tetanus medicine. Santos said Roberto had difficulty breathing and was placed on life support. He said the boy needs an operation to remove the infection and a skin graft. - GMANews.TV