MANDALUYONG, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) welcomed representatives from Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) on 14 November 2025 as the group turned over their donation to help families recovering from the recent Cebu and Davao earthquake.
The DHC team was led by Blessy Townes, Vice President & Head of Digital Marketing and Branding, together with Lynette Ermac, Senior Vice President of Sales and Operations. They were joined by several senior leaders and representatives from Discovery’s hotels and resorts, including colleagues from Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, Discovery Primea, and Discovery Suites who all took part in the visit.
The team was received at the PRC – National Headquarters Tower by the organization’s Finance Director Rayadh Manalad, who thanked them on behalf of Chairman Richard J. Gordon and the PRC volunteers working on the ground.
DHC’s donation was the result of a groupwide fundraising initiative led by Jose Parreño Jr., President of Discovery World Corporation and Chief Operating Officer of DHC, carried out across its portfolio of hotels and resorts.
After the turnover, PRC colleagues brought the group inside the Operations Center (OpCen) where responders monitor emergencies 24/7, coordinate teams for mobilization, and send assets wherever they are needed most. Through a tour of PRC’s OpCen, the delegation saw firsthand how every donation is translated into blankets, hot meals, medical care, and essential support for people who have lost so much during manmade incidents and natural disasters.
In a short interview, Ermac and Townes explained why DHC chose to help the affected communities through the PRC.
“The Philippine Red Cross is known for its core pillars of trust and transparency, which we very much believe in. So, we wanted to make sure that the donations from our properties—especially of our guests—will be coursed through an organization that operates with accountability,” said Townes.
In a message to the DHC team, PRC Chairman & CEO Richard Gordon said, “When disaster strikes, people look for a hand they can hold on to. We are grateful that Discovery Hospitality chose to be that hand for the families in Cebu and Davao. Your act of solidarity helps us reach more people, faster, and reminds communities that they are not alone.”
The Philippine Red Cross continues to support families affected by the earthquake through relief distributions, health services, and ongoing assessments in hard-hit areas. PRC expressed its appreciation to Discovery Hospitality for standing with the organization at a time when compassion makes the greatest difference.
Since the earthquakes struck, PRC teams have been on the ground providing humanitarian assistance to hundreds of families. The organization continues to call for solidarity and support to sustain recovery efforts. If you’re interested in making a donation, visit our website at https://redcross.org.ph/ways-to-donate/
For any emergencies, please contact the PRC Hotline #143.
The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need.
