4 vehicular mishaps, food poisoning case reported so far amid Holy Week –NDRRMC

Four vehicular accidents and a food poisoning incident have been reported so far in the country this Holy Week, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Friday.

Based on the NDRRMC’s 8 a.m. report, 13 people were hurt in these incidents in the Ilocos and Northern Mindanao Regions.

On Holy Wednesday, the NDRRMC said a motorcycle and a car got into an accident in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur. Crash victim Edwin Mendoza from Rosario suffered multiple abrasions and back pain.

In Vigan, a wheel of a calesa was damaged while touring some visitors. Frontliners assisted the “cuchero” and passengers.

On Holy Tuesday, the NDRRMC said an individual was injured after a vehicular accident on Sayre Highway in Maramag, Bukidnon. The victim was given first aid and brought to the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital.

On Holy Monday, a motorcycle and a “kurongkurong” - a motorcycle with a sidecar - figured in an accident. Five victims, mostly minors, suffered minor scratches.

In Lopez Jaena, Misamis Occidental, six students, all aged nine, complained about abdominal pain related to food poisoning after consuming sunflower seeds .

The children were brought to Rural Health Unit-Lopez Jaena for medical treatment. They were later they were sent home, according to the NDRRMC.

"As our nation solemnly observes the Holy Week, keep in mind the safety of our families and homes,” NDRRMC executive director Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said.

“Check the vehicles you will use when you travel, list emergency hotlines in your destination, secure your homes, and stay safe,” he added.

Earlier, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. called on all commanders of the police force to aspire for a zero-casualty week.

"For all travelers via different airlines or seaports, let's all ensure that no untoward incidents will happen at the airports and seaports especially the baggage or belongings of passengers," he said.

"To those taking the bus, please ensure that the drivers are okay, not tired and the buses are in good running conditions. Let's keep this holy week one of the safest and most peaceful,” he added. — DVM, GMA Integrated News