Senator Cayetano, AFP chief visit Israeli field hospital

CEBU, Philippines - Senator Allan Peter Cayetano was in Cebu yesterday, particularly in Bogo City, where he visited the field hospital that was being run by the Israeli Defense Forces.

Cayetano personally lauded the Israeli troops for the help they have been giving to Cebu, especially the northern towns that were ravaged by super typhoon Yolanda two weeks ago.

Israeli Deputy Ambassador Adam Levene expressed to Cayetano their honor in being able to help and the privilege for Israel to be able to extend a hand in friendship during such troubled times.

Last Saturday, Armed Force of  the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff  Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista also visited the Israeli field hospital.

Along with the Israeli Defense Forces commanders, Bautista toured the field hospital where he heard directly among typhoon victims the tremendous effect of the Israeli operations in the area.

In a press statement sent by the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, Bautista commended the Israel troops for their dedication and hard work in helping the typhoon victims.

The field hospital started operating last November 15 in front of Severo Verallo Memorial District Hospital in Bogo City, wherein they are treating hundreds of patients daily as well as delivering births.

Earlier, Israeli Ambassador Menashe Bar-On turned over $500,000 worth of medicines to the Cebu provincial government intended for the district hospitals in Cebu.

The Israeli medical personnel have treated more than 2,452 patients already, including 787 children from Bogo City and nearby northern towns which were affected by the typhoon. A total of 52 operations have been conducted.

Also, the Israeli delegation also rehabilitated four schools in the area that were damaged by the typhoon plus water systems were established too in several locations.

The Israeli team also conducted debriefing sessions for teachers who are responsible for around 40,000 school children. — (FREEMAN)