The wingvan driver who lost his job after using his vehicle to rescue people swept away by floodwaters in Cebu now has new work with the provincial government. The incident happened at the height of Tropical Storm Tino, when he and two helpers were seen in a viral video pulling six people to safety with the help of the Liloan Municipal Police Station.
The driver, Francis Anthony Narvasa, was removed from his previous job after he used the wingvan during the widespread flooding. Despite the dismissal, the rescue effort drew wide attention online and prompted various groups to reach out and offer assistance.
The Cebu Provincial Government later hired Narvasa as a Capitol driver, recognizing his act during the rescue. Officials said the move was meant to acknowledge the risks he took to save lives in a situation where the water level had already risen dangerously.
Narvasa expressed his gratitude for the new opportunity, saying he was thankful for the support he received after the incident. He also thanked the people who shared the video, which helped bring attention to the circumstances that led to his termination.
Before the provincial government’s action, the Police Regional Office 7 had already recognized the rescue carried out by Narvasa and his two helpers. PRO-7 also coordinated with stakeholders to help them find employment after the loss of their earlier work.
The rescue video continues to circulate online as residents recall the extent of the flooding during the storm. For Narvasa, the new job marks a fresh start after a difficult stretch brought about by both the disaster and its aftermath.
