MANDALUYONG, Philippines — To support families affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu, Sandoz Philippines Corporation has donated P350,000 worth of essential medicines to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). 

During the turnover ceremony held on December 3 at the PRC Tower, Sandoz Philippines was represented by Country Head Caroline Choy, Chief Financial Officer Kristine Marie Dela Cruz, Head of Regulatory Affairs Grace Olympia, and Head of Medical Affairs Mary Ann Evangelista. The delegation met with PRC executives and toured the PRC’s Operation Center (OpCen) afterwards.

Sandoz Philippines’ donation will strengthen PRC’s ongoing health and medical response in affected communities, particularly supporting the treatment of respiratory infections, bacterial illnesses, and chronic conditions such as hypertension. 

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon emphasized the importance of strong collaboration with the private sector. “Disasters often strain local health services, particularly in hard-hit communities. Support from partners like Sandoz allows us to bridge critical gaps in care and ensure that children, older persons, and those with ongoing medical needs receive timely treatment,” he said.

“Access to quality medication is a critical part of recovery, and we thank Sandoz for their generosity and partnership during a time when many families need support,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang. 

In an interview with Sandoz Philippines’ Country Head Caroline Choy, she explained what made Sandoz Philippines donate to the victims of the earthquake through the PRC. 

“We want Filipino patients to have access to our quality medicines. And the only way we can do that is if we find a reputable organization that can represent us where we can provide those medicines and would have an immediate reach for those affected. And one thing that we decided on was to go to the Philippine Red Cross. From what we have observed, in all the incidents or calamities that happened in the Philippines, PRC has always been the first on the ground. The PRC has the capability and ability to reach the people who were affected by the calamities,” said Choy. 

Sandoz Philippines, the local subsidiary of the global generics and biosimilars company Sandoz, has a longstanding partnership with the Philippine Red Cross. In August 2020, they donated a year-long supply of medicines benefiting nearly 10,000 patients with infections and 6,000 individuals managing hypertension nationwide.

The Philippine Red Cross continues to work with partners to extend humanitarian aid for families affected by recent disasters, ensuring that life-saving assistance reaches communities swiftly and effectively. 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.