In Northern Samar

CATARMAN, Northern Samar-The provincial government has already completed the installation of new water pumping systems in Allen District Hospital and GB Tan Memorial Hospital in Laoang.

The project is vital for these two hospitals which cater to a large number of patients, both admitted and out-patients. It comes with water reservoirs, pump house and controls, among others, and expected to supply water 24-7, essential to the operations of public hospitals.

On top of these new water systems, the provincial government has also lined up facility improvements, upgrading of equipment and human resources to enhance health service delivery in the province.

For medical equipment alone, the provincial government has a P54 million investment this year for hemodialysis machines, anesthesia machine, x-ray units, ultrasound, ventilators, cardiac monitors and medical devices, among others, for its health facilities in the province. While 30 million has been allocated this 2025 for the improvement of public health infrastructures in Northern Samar.

Recently, both Allen and Laoang hospitals, also received additional mechanical beds, along with other district hospitals and the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital, to help address the increasing demand for facility services.

The project is aligned with the health development agenda of the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Edwin Ongchuan.

(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)

TACLOBAN CITY—Unlike other regions in the country, Eastern Visayas has recorded a decline in dengue cases this year compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Department of Health (DOH) regional office.

As of February 15, 2025, the region has logged 812 dengue cases, significantly lower than the 1,141 cases recorded during the same period last year, said Jelyn Malibago, regional information officer of DOH-Eastern Visayas.

“Compared to other regions, we are not seeing an increase in dengue cases here. Our systems remain in place, including active surveillance mechanisms, health promotion initiatives, regular program updates and monitoring for local government units (LGUs), and the provision of technical assistance,” Malibago said in an online interview Wednesday, Feb.19.

She attributed the decline in cases to the sustained implementation of dengue prevention measures by LGUs, which were reinforced during last year’s surge in infections.

Despite the decrease in cases, the DOH continues to urge the public to intensify the implementation of the 4S Strategy to prevent the spread of dengue: search and destroy mosquito breeding sites by eliminating stagnant water where mosquito larvae may thrive.

Water containers should be properly covered and cleaned regularly; seek early consultation if experiencing sudden high fever for two days, along with other dengue symptoms; self-protect by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved, light-colored clothing and long pants; and support fogging activities in communities when a dengue outbreak is imminent.

Hospitals and health facilities are also encouraged to ensure the availability of dengue fast lanes, sufficient healthcare providers, and adequate dengue medicines and supplies to guarantee prompt medical attention for patients.

The DOH assures the public that it remains vigilant in monitoring dengue cases in the region and will continue working with LGUs and other stakeholders to sustain the downward trend.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (L2DEO) is in the final stages of constructing a flood mitigation structure along the Calbasag River in Barangays Highway and San Rafael, Dulag, Leyte.
The project, now 96.38% complete, aims to reduce flood risks and protect local communities from recurring inundation.

The Calbasag Bridge, a vital passage along Maharlika Highway, is prone to damage due to the strong river currents, particularly during heavy rainfall, affecting the residents in the process.

District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura reported that the project has a total contract cost of P84.41 million and involves the construction of a 370-meter flood control structure consisting of two segments: 240 meters (Line 1) and 130 meters (Line 2).

The 5.8-meter-tall structure is reinforced with structural steel sheet piles, designed to prevent soil erosion and mitigate flooding during intense rainfall and high tide.

“Once completed, this project will significantly enhance the community’s resilience, protecting lives and properties,” Oppura said.

He added that the facility is expected to provide long-term relief to residents and neighboring areas that have long been vulnerable to flooding.

“The flood control structure will help minimize damage to homes, agricultural lands, and infrastructure, ultimately improving overall safety,” Oppura said.

Aside from its flood mitigation benefits, the project has also provided employment opportunities for local workers.

Antonio Macalinao, a resident of Brgy.Sansotero, Javier, also in Leyte, who is currently employed as a laborer on the project, shared how the initiative has positively impacted his livelihood.

“Before, I only had occasional construction work, which was not enough to support my family. Now, through this DPWH project, I can cover my child’s education expenses, electricity bills, and other household needs,” he said.

“Thanks to DPWH, I was given this job opportunity. This project is also a huge help to residents in mitigating the dangers of flooding during typhoons,” he added.

The project is funded under the DPWH FY 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) through its Flood Management Program, which supports the construction and maintenance of flood mitigation structures and drainage systems.

The construction works started on June 4, 2024 with a target completion of April 26, this year.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)