Government vows to help stranded passengers

MANILA, Philippines — The government yesterday vowed to assist stranded people in Metro Manila amid the coronavirus lockdown following the death of Michelle Silvertino, the housemaid who died after days of waiting for a bus ride to Bicol.

Malacañang expressed grief over Silvertino’s death, who walked from Cubao in Quezon City to Pasay to get a bus ride on her way home to her family in Calabanga, Camarines Sur.

“We condole with the family of Michelle Silvertino. Nobody wanted this to happen,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said at a press briefing.

The 33-year-old mother of four stayed for five days at a footbridge in Pasay where she died of pulmonary tuberculosis.

The municipal government of Calabanga and private individuals gave cash aid to Silvertino’s family.

Her eldest child was also granted scholarship.

Roque said the government would help passengers stranded at the airport and bus terminals in Metro Manila.

Roque said stranded persons would be brought first to the Villamor Airbase in Pasay for antibody rapid testing before they are transported to the provinces.

“They will stay there while waiting for their flights or bus rides,” he said.

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