(Photo courtesy : Ramon Singson fbpage)
A volunteer rescuer from Toledo City who took part in the search and rescue efforts following the Binaliw trash slide has died after developing septic shock caused by a serious foot infection.
Ramon Abalde Singson, 50, a volunteer responder and a security guard at Carmen Copper Corporation, passed away on January 16, just days after completing his deployment at the Binaliw ground zero site from January 10 to 13.
Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak said medical findings showed that Singson’s immediate cause of death was septic shock secondary to a severe wound infection on his left big toe. The victim was also diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, a condition that may have accelerated the infection and complicated his recovery.
According to the victim’s family, Singson complained of persistent pain in his foot shortly after returning home from the rescue operation. His daughter said he had been wearing boots continuously for several days while on duty, which likely contributed to the development of the wound.
“Pag-uli niya, naglain na iyang lawas ug sige siyag sul-ob sa boots. Nilothan iyang tiil ug na-infection,” she said, recalling how his foot became swollen and infected soon after his deployment.
As his condition worsened, Singson was admitted to Miller Hospital for treatment. Despite medical intervention, the infection progressed rapidly, eventually leading to septic shock. His family confirmed that he had long been living with diabetes, which is known to impair wound healing and increase vulnerability to severe infections.
Tumulak said he is awaiting the official death certificate to complete the required documentation and to determine the assistance that may be extended to the bereaved family. He added that coordination is ongoing with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Cebu City Government regarding possible aid and support.
The death of Singson has cast a somber shadow over the rescue efforts, highlighting the risks faced by volunteer responders who step forward in times of disaster to help others.
