Three Victims of Pasacao Boat Explosion Died at BMC

Naga City (June 6 2011) – Three victims of a boat fire incident in the town of Pasacao died yesterday at the Bicol Medical Center (BMC) because of multiple  internal organ failure and dehydration due to severe burns.

This was confirmed by the management of the BMC in a press briefing this morning.

Nathan Balbona, the boat captain, Fernan Ragot and Joebert Mangarin, both crewmen of the cargo vessel, died in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Their bodies have been brought to their hometown Mabini in Romblon province.

According to Dr. Romeo Nebres one of the attending physicians and a plastic surgeon who attended to the patients, the severe burn they suffered from the explosion of the cargo vessel was the main cause of their death.

He explained that a fire incident victim becomes prone to infection because the immune system that offers natural protection gets overwhelmed when the skin becomes compromised. The skin is the most important organ that shields the human body from threats coming from external environment, Nebres added.

He also said the internal organs of the victims have also been affected by extensive burns. Severe burn causes internal organs to stop functioning and can cause death.

Meanwhile, Dr. Efren Nerva, the BMC Medical Director IV said the other victims who survived can have their outpatient follow up at the BMC, but because they all come from Romblon province they will likely be endorsed to the provincial hospital in their home province.