Woman expects quads, delivers triplets

MANILA, Philippines - A 21-year-old housewife gave birth to triplets yesterday morning after an ultrasound exam – done minutes before the birth – indicated that she was bearing quadruplets.

Maria Teresa Madeja, of Rosario, Cavite, was accompanied by her father, her husband, and an aide of Rosario Mayor Jose Ricafrente when she delivered three girls through caesarian section at Fabella Memorial Hospital in Manila shortly after 4 a.m.

The babies were named Josefina Matilde, Josefina Bonita and Josefina Santina.

Reporters rushed to the hospital yesterday morning after a radio station reported that Madeja gave birth to quadruplets.

Ricafrente’s aide said they brought Madeja to the government-run hospital after her father sought their assistance. Madeja’s father, who was also interviewed by reporters, said his daughter was expecting quadruplets.