Presidential ship becomes floating hospital for Siargao's Odette victims

The BRP Ang Pangulo reached Siargao Island to give medical services to fishermen and communities affected by Typhoon Odette, the Philippine Navy said Sunday.

The Navy and its Eastern Mindanao Command were deployed to give medical consultations, medicines, and supplements to Siargao victims on Christmas Eve.

"To date, ACS25 has provided much-needed, free medical consultations, medicines, and supplements to 36 individuals wherein two were initially admitted but eventually discharged upon medication," the Navy said in a statement.

Aside from the presidential ship, the Philippine Navy also sent its multi-capable frigate, BRP Jose Rizal to Puerto Princesa, Palawan last December 24 where it delivered 30,000 kilograms of relief items for Odette-hit communities.

"The PN, through The Philippine Fleet and Naval Forces West in Palawan, is devoting all of its available resources to provide much-needed logistical and personnel support to assist fellow Filipinos in dealing with Typhoon Odette's aftermath," it said.

Typhoon Odette first made landfall over Siargao Island and Surigao del Norte, after which it devastated parts of the Visayas, Mindanao as well as Palawan.

Several communities in provinces battered by Odette are still suffering from a scarcity of essential items, electricity, and water. — DVM, GMA News