PATIENTS are evacuated during a fire at the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital in Dumaguete City on Tuesday night, Nov. 18. (Photo via Jeez Guardario)
BACOLOD CITY – A fire hit the old building of the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital in Dumaguete City on Tuesday night, Nov. 18.
Several patients were evacuated to the parking area during the fire.
Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria responded to the area and checked affected areas to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
Sagarbarria said the fire was contained immediately by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of the blaze.
“There was really no big fire, and thanks to our fire responders for acting very fast,” he added.
Sagarbarria said the molecular laboratory beside the outpatient department (OPD) near the intensive care unit of the pediatrics department was closed.
He said the situation returned to normal after the fire was put out around 8 p.m., and the patients have returned to their rooms, except for the pediatrics department, which they have to move to other sections of the hospital.
No injuries were reported, he said. “Basically, it’s just inconvenience,” he added. Sagarbarria said the doctors are in full force.
The governor thanked those involved in the fire response. “You can see the resiliency of the province. We are practically prepared for the worst case scenario. It could have been worst if we are not prepared,” he said.
He said they will reassess the structural damage and electrical wirings to make sure this will not happen again.
In a social media post, the hospital extended their sincerest gratitude to those who helped and supported them during the fire.
“Your swift response and tremendous support have been instrumental in ensuring the safety of our patients and staff. Thank you Lord for keeping us all safe. We are forever grateful,” the hospital management stated.
The Department of Health (DOH)-Negros Island Region-Center for Health Development (NIR-CHD) which occupies the third floor of the adjacent building, implemented alternate work arrangements on Wednesday, Nov. 19, to allow NOPH management and BFP to complete full structural and electrical assessments.
Public service remains uninterrupted through remote coordination and established emergency communication lines.