RP launches anti-cholera drive

RP launches anti-cholera drive

MANILA (AFP): President Fidel Ramos has ordered government officials nationwide to implement the health department's anti- cholera measures, following the death of 170 cholera victims, a palace statement said yesterday.

The action was prompted by reports that 1,773 people were confirmed to have contracted the disease, although estimates range as high as 10,600 victims, the statement said.

A Department of Health report said 102 million pesos (US$3.78 million) will be needed to treat and cure all those affected. The palace statement did not specify whether the government would provide total funding for the program.