Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 17) — The Department of Health is keeping a close watch on people who may be dealing with trauma following Taal Volcano’s eruption.
Health Secretary Franciso Duque III on Friday said they have deployed teams to the Taal region to help residents deal with trauma and other possible psychosocial symptoms.
“We don’t want the trauma to be lingering because that will affect their quality of life. That will affect the way they deal socially with others and then they can get depressed,” he said.
The secretary admitted the number of health officers from the Calabarzon region may not be enough, which is why health officers from other areas and officers from the Social Welfare Department will be sent there to help.
Over 66,000 people are taking shelter in 283 evacuation centers in Batangas and Cavite, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
