ILOILO City is ready to deploy its Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) medical team to Sibalom, Antique after more than 300 students were affected by a chemical poisoning incident, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) said on July 3, 2025.
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas ordered the deployment following a request for assistance from Antique Governor Paolo Javier and in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Western Visayas.
“My heart goes out to the people of Sibalom, Antique, as you face this serious mass casualty incident,” Treñas said. “Together with our fellow Ilonggos, we stand with you. We are ready to extend all the support you need.”
CDRRMO head Donna Magno said the City’s off-duty medical personnel from the USAR team are on standby and ready to respond. The team includes a certified hazardous materials (HazMat) specialist, three registered nurses with hospital experience, two HazMat support crew, two ambulance drivers, and emergency medical officers.
The USAR unit is fully equipped with HazMat gas monitoring devices, chemical identification and collection software, and advanced personal protective equipment (PPE), enabling them to perform safely and effectively in hazardous environments.
“The CDRRMO is in close coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Sibalom, which is currently conducting needs assessments,” Magno said. “Whatever needs arise, they will inform us accordingly.”
CDRRMO USAR pre-deployment briefing that covered the nature of the incident, a summary of developments, and the condition of the affected individuals. The USAR team is on high alert for immediate deployment. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)