Cebu: Senator Erwin Tulfo has urged the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that the remains of earthquake victims in Cebu are kept out of public view. Tulfo’s appeal comes in the wake of a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Bogo City, during which images of body bags outside a hospital circulated online, raising concerns about the psychological impact on survivors and the community.

According to Philippines News Agency, the issue was brought up during the Senate Subcommittee on Finance’s deliberations over the DOH’s proposed 2026 budget. Tulfo expressed his concerns to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, suggesting that hospitals be instructed to relocate the remains to less visible areas.

Health Secretary Herbosa responded by acknowledging the situation, explaining that the remains were placed outside to help families locate missing relatives. He recognized the potential mental health impact on survivors and emphasized the need for a designated area that is both accessible for identification purposes and respectful of the community’s well-being.

Herbosa assured that the bodies were covered and organized and committed to working with local authorities to find a more discreet location. He stated, “We will allocate a special area that is hidden. I agree,” to address the concerns raised.

The earthquake has claimed at least 63 lives in Northern Cebu, with many others injured. This disaster occurred while relief operations were ongoing for victims of Severe Tropical Storm Opong in the Visayas, compounding the challenges faced by the affected communities.