UP confirms Leyte student’s death

MANILA, Philippines - A University of the Philippines-Visayas (UPV) student died in Leyte during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda, university president Alfredo Pascual confirmed the other day.

In a statement, Pascual said third year social science (major in political science) student Erica Cressia Antonino was among those who died in the aftermath of the typhoon.

“Erica is the only confirmed casualty from UPV Tacloban College (UPVTC). I hope and pray that there are no other casualties to follow,” he said.

Citing reports from officials and contacts in the area, Pascual said Antonino was trapped in her home in Barangay San Joaquin, Palo, Leyte, together with her father and sister, when the typhoon struck Eastern Visayas last Nov. 8.

He said Antonino’s mother survived the storm and is now staying with relatives in Sta. Fe, Leyte.

“We are all deeply saddened by this tragedy and join Erica’s family and relatives in mourning the untimely death of Erica, her father and sister. We hope that fond memories of her three years in UPV Tacloban College as a consistently good student would bring comfort to her friends and classmates and serve as an inspiration to her fellow ‘Iskolars ng Bayan,’” he said.

Pascual called on the UP community to “provide all possible material, financial and emotional support to Erica’s family and relatives as they cope with the tragedy and move on with their lives.”

Earlier, Pascual had issued a memorandum launching “Tulong UP” to mobilize material and financial donations for the typhoon victims.

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post to students of the college, UPVTC dean Anita Cular said classes will resume on Jan. 13.