Guinobatan: The Municipal Health Office (MHO) of Guinobatan in Albay province has recorded cases of respiratory illnesses due to ashfall from Mayon Volcano, an official said Tuesday. 'There is an increase in cases of cough, colds, and respiratory infections, and we expect more in the coming days,' Municipal Health Officer Dr. Maria Malou Ofrasio said in an interview on PTV's "Rise and Shine Pilipinas".

According to Philippines News Agency, the MHO has begun distributing medicines, face masks, and nebulizers to barangays (villages), with support from the Provincial Health Office, the Department of Health (DOH), and the local government unit (LGU). 'Medicines and masks are being distributed, although supplies are being released gradually. We are also expecting additional medicines, especially for coughs and colds,' Ofrasio added.

Health workers have reached all 44 barangays in Guinobatan, including remote areas, through barangay health stations. Ofrasio reported that some patients experienced difficulty in breathing at the onset of ashfall, with cases being treated at hospitals and rural health units where DOH nurses are deployed.

While potable water remains available through water refilling stations and donated supplies, the water supply has been affected, likely due to ash contamination in reservoirs. 'Our main concern now is the water supply, as it has limited residents' ability to clean their homes,' Ofrasio said.

Despite these challenges, the local government has coordinated with the Bureau of Fire Protection and neighboring municipalities to conduct flushing operations in ashfall-affected areas.