Tornado rips part of Iloilo hotel entrance ceiling

A tornado ripped a portion of a hotel's entrance ceiling in Iloilo City amid heavy rainfall and strong winds on Tuesday evening.

One person was hurt while three cars were damaged, according to Zuri Hotel's statement. 

“Due to a localized tornado event (buhawi or ipo-ipo), characterized by heavy rainfall and strong winds, a portion of the hotel lobby entrance ceiling detached,” Zuri Hotel - Iloilo said.

“This unfortunately resulted in damage to several vehicles (three cars and one motorcycle) and injuries to a food delivery rider,” it added.

According to the hotel, the wounded rider was given first aid by Iloilo City emergency responders and hotel staff and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. 

“We are closely monitoring his condition and providing all necessary assistance,” Zuri Hotel said.

The hotel also said the structural integrity of their establishment remains sound, as the main structure has consistently passed all necessary building inspections and adheres to the safety standards.

“Hotel management is taking immediate action to assess the damage, secure the affected area, and commence repairs to the lobby entrance ceiling,” the hotel said.

“We are committed to completing these repairs as quickly and efficiently as possible, with minimal disruption to our hotel operations,” it added.

Zuri Hotel - Iloilo has apologized for the incident and any concern it may have caused. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News