THE Cebu provincial government and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) have commended a wing van driver who risked his life to save residents caught in floodwaters at the height of Typhoon Tino.
A viral video on social media showed the driver, identified as Francis Anthony Narvasa, maneuvering his wing van to block the rushing flood in Brgy. Cotcot, Liloan, Cebu on November 4.
The move allowed six people who were swept away by the current to climb to safety. Narvasa was assisted on the ground by members of the Liloan police led by PLTCOL Dindo Juanito B. Alaras.
Despite the rescue, reports later surfaced that Narvasa had been dismissed from his job for using a company vehicle during the incident.
DOLE Region 7 said it will investigate the dismissal, noting concerns that the action may have been unjust. The inquiry will also cover any benefits or entitlements that Narvasa may still receive from his former employer.
Narvasa is also scheduled to receive recognition from DOLE 7 in December during the agency’s anniversary program.
Cebu Gov. Pam Baricuatro was also among those who took notice of Narvasa’s actions.
According to the provincial government, the governor immediately offered him a driver position at the Capitol upon learning he had lost his job.
