MANDALUYONG, Philippines – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) warmly welcomed the twenty-four volunteer delegates from the Korean National Red Cross Gyeonggi Chapter on October 2 to officially kick off the third batch’s five-day visit to the country.

The purpose of the visit, which takes place from October 2 to 6, is to foster international cooperation, enhance global partnership, and promote friendship and mutual understanding between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea.

“We might come from different national societies, but we are one under a strong Red Cross Movement. I want to thank the third batch of delegates from the Korean National Red Cross Gyeonggi Chapter for coming to our beloved country. In this day and age where there is divisiveness and turmoil in many parts of the world, this visit is a testament to a strengthened partnership and cooperation between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea. I hope that many nations, organizations, and citizens draw inspiration from this,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon.

“The PRC and the Korean Red Cross have a very strong relationship and partnership. We’re doing many things together, especially during disasters. The Korean Red Cross helped us a lot during our Typhoon Haiyan operations in 2013; it also donated a sea ambulance, a food truck, and helped us in constructing our warehouse in Iloilo. We thank you for the friendship and partnership,” PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang added.

During the courtesy visit, the Korean volunteers toured around the PRC National Headquarters, particularly its 24/7 Operations Center and National Blood Center. They were informed and exposed to PRC’s services, assets, and responses.

Together with the PRC Manila Chapter, the delegates will be distributing a total of 600 eco-friendly bags and gift boxes at Mariano Ponce Elementary School in Santa Cruz and Brgy. 234 Zone 22 in Tondo, Manila as part of their outreach efforts. They will also serve K-Food (Korean food) meals for 600 individuals while drinking facilities will also be installed when the need arises.

The first and second batches of delegates from the Korean National Red Cross Gyeonggi Chapter visited the Philippines in March and December last year.