Northern Cebu hospitals operational, on alert after strong quake

The hospitals located in northern Cebu are under close monitoring following the strong earthquake that hit Bogo City late Monday afternoon, according to the Cebu Province information office.

"Monitoring is focused on hospitals in the northern corridor and those closest to fault lines," said Capitol Piso Health Consultant Dr. Elise Nicole Catalan in an update posted at 9pm.

"Safety protocols are in place at CPH Bogo (Cebu Provincial Hospital Bogo) following the recent earthquake," she added.

Initial assessment has been conducted by the Office of the Building Official (OBO).

Chief of Hospital Dr. Z. Yurango said that "The City of Bogo OBO conducted initial assessment. Minimal non-structural damages. We are in the process of bringing our patients to the hallways for easier evacuation, bracing for possible strong aftershocks.”

Meanwhile, Cebu Gov. Pam Baricuatro has directed the Provincial Engineering Office to conduct a "follow-up assessment to further ensure the structural integrity of the facility."

The hospital staff are on heightened alert as patients have been "repositioned" to allow faster evacuation if deemed necessary.

It was also reported that Sogod District Hospital has structural damage.

"No untoward incidents were also recorded in Tuburan District Hospital, Bantayan District Hospital, and Daanbantayan District Hospital, with all lifelines stable and services continuing as normal," the Cebu Province announced.

"The Provincial Government continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring readiness across all health facilities in the affected areas," it added. — BAP, GMA News