The Philippine Res Cross (PRC) is now on a “full alert” status to aid victims of Taal Volcano’s recent eruption, said Senator Dick Gordon who is also PRC chairman.
In a statement, Gordon reported that the PRC has deployed five ambulances, a Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment team and welfare desks to prepare face masks, hot meals, and rescue vehicles for the evacuees.
“We advise everyone to take precautionary measures to avoid inhalation of ashes.”
“We advise everyone to take precautionary measures to avoid inhalation of ashes. Report to us any untoward incidents or call Red Cross hotline 143 in case of an emergency. Our teams are also assessing the immediate needs of the affected residents,” the veteran legislator said.
To date, more than 4,000 families or some 14,491 individuals have taken shelter in 35 evacuation centers in Cavite and Batangas following the eruption on Sunday.
Citing that volcanic ashes continue to cover the highways and streets up to Metro Manila, the seasoned lawmaker advised that senior citizens especially those with respiratory problems must be taken care of.
Gordon added that volcanic ashes are made of pulverized glass and rocks – abrasive, mildly corrosive, can conduct electricity when wet, and doesn’t dissolve in water.
“Dapat ding walisin ang mga abo sa bubong dahil posibleng bumagsak ito kapag umulan at delikado sa tao (Volcanic ashes on roofs must be swept because (they) can cause (roofs) to fall when it rains and it’s dangerous to people),” he said.
“Always consult scientists in responding to disasters.”
“I learned a long time ago to always consult scientists in responding to disasters. We were successful in Pinatubo. We will be successful again this time. Thanks to people like Dr. Solidum of Phivolcs and Dr. Kelvin Rodolfo,” Gordon added.
Evacuation has been advised in two cities and 12 municipalities in Batangas province and nearby towns in Cavite as Alert Level 4 remains, warning of a hazardous eruption that could happen within hours to days.