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MANILA—A 28-year old woman who gave birth in Caloocan died after 6 hospitals refused to admit her, citing full capacity, including one facility that asked for a deposit as payment before being taken in.

Kathy Bulatao gave birth to her third child on Friday afternoon with the help of a midwife.

Her husband, Jan Christian Bulatao, said the birthing had complications, requiring Kathy to be confined at hospital.

“Masyado raw malalim ang isang inunan, hindi daw nailabas,” Jan said, adding that Kathy was experiencing difficulty breathing and was bleeding profusely.

They were turned away by six hospitals citing the lack of available space and blood supply. One hospital asked for P30,000 as deposit.

“Sabi nila hindi raw pupuwede, bago maoperahan sana at least may maibigay daw kaming downpayment. Nakiusap ako na kukunin ko naman ang pera sa bahay, wala lang akong dala kasi emergency,” Jan said, but they were told to look for a public hospital.

They spent nearly six hours looking for a hospital until they reached Bulacan, where a private hospital accepted Kathy, but it was too late.

“Siyempre nauubusan na kada minuto ang asawa ko ng dugo, hirap nang huminga. Hindi man lang sinukat ang vitals niya para alam namin kung aabot pa sa susunod naming pupuntahang ospital,” Jan said.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the Department of Health issued a directive ordering hospitals and healthcare facilities to continue providing essential health services to the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The family is seeking justice for Kathy.