Pinoy quake victims seek shelter in 2 evac centers
abs-cbnNEWS.com | 04/08/2009 12:19 PM
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Filipino migrants displaced by a powerful earthquake in Italy are now temporarily sheltered in two evacuation centers in L’Aquila.
ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau correspondent Jocelyn Ruiz reported that the Filipinos are now staying at Campo Sportivo, or sports complex, and Centro Collela in L’Aquila, Abruzzo.
"We have no place to go. We went here to work and now this happened. We've lost our jobs," said overseas Filipino worker Albert Barte.
Barte and other OFWs confessed that some of their important documents such as passports and permits to stay were left behind while they fled from the quake. They said some of their employers were affected by the quake, which could affect their jobs.
The powerful quake was felt Monday night and continued on until dawn that caused the collapse of many condominium buildings. Latest figures placed the casualties at 235 while rescue operation continues.
For now, the Filipino evacuees will need to stay in the evacuation centers, which have tents with beds and blankets and toilets for the victims. The centers have a standby ambulance, doctors and volunteer workers whie police secure the area.
The local government of Abruzzo also distributed food to the displaced Filipinos.
Staff of the Philippine Labor Office-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (POLO-OWWA) went to L’Aquila to personally assist an estimated 114 Filipinos affected by the earthquake. The POLO-OWWA also brought some relief goods like canned goods, milk and diapers for babies.
Meanwhile, the lone Filipino who sustained minor injuries was discharged from a hospital.
Construction worker Jeffrey Pugal suffered a wound to the chin and a swollen leg. He is now in a good condition. Pugal, 35, reportedly jumped out of the window with his family when the earthquake occurred. He and his family already moved to one of the two evacuation centers.
