Philippine Red Cross

Philippine Red Cross calls on runners and cyclists anew to join virtual duathlon

Written on June 1, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) today called on runners and cyclists anew to join Million Volunteer Run 6 (MVR 6), its annual fundraising and volunteer recruitment activity. The event is extended up to June 12, 2022, with a virtual gathering of participants as the event’s finale.

MVR 6 is a non-competitive event that allows participants to complete their preferred category and distance at their own pace. They bike and/or run by themselves or in groups and upload their individual photo documentation on the event’s dashboard.

Major prizes consist of three Ogawa massage chairs, eight Trek bikes, and ten Php10,000.00 cash-prize. Minor prizes include one laptop, three tablets, five Airpods Pro, three Fitbit Versa 2 smartwatches, and five Fitbit Inspire 2 trackers.

MVR is a concrete way the public can join PRC’s network of volunteers in helping people made vulnerable by emergencies and disasters.

Registration is still open, through https://bit.ly/MillionVolunteerRun6.

PH Red Cross welcomes Saudi Red Crescent Authority Delegates, discusses areas of partnership

Written on May 31, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) welcomed delegates from the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) on May 25-26, 2022.

Present during the event were Engr. Saad Mohammed Al Qahtani, SRCA Vice President for Shared Services and Head of Delegation, and SCRA delegates, Dr. Mohammed Al Swaiah, Director of Academic Affairs and Training, Mshael Al Yahya, VP Office Manager, and Abdulaziz Al Otaibi, International Relations and Partnerships Manager. They were welcomed by PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon and PRC Secretary General Elizabeth Zavalla.

PRC Managers shared with the delegates the different PRC services and best practices as possible areas of partnership. The delegates also visited the PRC Operations Center which serves as the nerve center of the organization that commands, controls, and delivers information.

“We are grateful that SCRA delegates are here with us to discuss partnership possibilities with the PRC. We are one in achieving our vision to alleviate human suffering and uplift the dignity of the most vulnerable,” Chairman Gordon said.

The delegates also explored areas of partnership in the National Blood Center, Molecular Laboratory, Hemodialysis Center, and Emergency Response Unit at Port Area, Manila and the PRC Manila Chapter in Intramuros.

The two-day visit aimed at establishing strategic partnerships in areas of mutual concern to both societies.

Philippine Red Cross equips more volunteers to respond to emergencies and disasters

Written on May 24, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross this week started training more than 200 community-based trainers who will train Red Cross 143 volunteers across the country to respond to emergencies and disasters. Municipal coordinators for Red Cross 143 in Philippine Red Cross’ 104 chapters nationwide will attend the 4-day training in three batches from May to June this year. Using blended learning, the 4-day webinar workshop includes lectures, quizzes, group workshops, an exam, fieldwork, and a trainee’s evaluation.

Red Cross 143 aims to promote a culture of self-help in communities by recruiting and preparing volunteers to respond to emergencies and disasters. The ultimate goal of the Red Cross 143 volunteer program is to capacitate communities to respond to emergencies and disasters on their own. It was first implemented during the Tropical Storm Ondoy (international name: Ketsana) Response in 2009.

The trainers’ training is in line with the premier humanitarian organization’s mantra of “Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = A Red Cross that is Always First, Always Ready, Always There.” Training will prepare communities in the wake of PAGASA’s warning that the rainy season and La Niña will bring higher amounts of rainfall in some areas of the country this year. The Philippine Red Cross Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon also instructed current volunteers and staff to ensure that they are ready to be deployed, along with Philippine Red Cross’ response assets and logistics.

Those who are interested to be trained as Red Cross 143 volunteers may contact the Red Cross chapter nearest them.

Rainy season declared: Philippine Red Cross ready to respond

Written on May 20, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

As the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declared yesterday, May 18, the start of the rainy season over the western sections of Luzon and Visayas, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Sen. Richard Gordon reminded the public to take the usual precautions during this period.

PAGASA also stated that the current La Niña may increase the possibility of above-normal rainfall conditions in the coming months affecting some parts of the country.

With this report from the state weather bureau, the PRC advises the public to follow the organization’s 4Ps: Predict, Plan, Prepare, and Practice.

“Laging handa ang Red Cross sa anumang sakuna ngayong tag-ulan. Hinihikayat ko rin ang ating mga kababayan na laging sundin ang proper hygiene at sanitation upang maiwasan ang mga sakit dulot ng palagiang pag-ulan.” Chairman Gordon said.

Upholding its mantra “Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = a Red Cross that is Always First, Always Ready, Always There,” the PRC, under the leadership of Chairman Gordon, has maintained its modern operations with assets delivering quick services to emergency situations arising due to hazards caused by heavy rainfall.

In anticipation of rescue and relief operations, the following assets will be mobilized:

• Pre-positioned items (food and non-food)

• 32 Food trucks

• 179 Ambulance units

• 5 Rescue trucks

• 34 Rescue boats

• 2 Amphibians

• 7 Payloaders

• 5 Six-by-six trucks

• 8 Humvees

• 15 Fire trucks

• 6 Fire tanker trucks

• 2 Military jeeps

In addition, the PRC operates 17 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) hubs equipped with trained volunteers and staff, water treatment units, and hygiene promotion materials. Some hubs also maintain water tankers for WASH-related emergencies.

For any emergency assistance, please call the PRC’s Operations Center at 143 or 790-23-00.

Philippine Red Cross celebrates its 75th Founding Anniversary

Written on May 18, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

Philippine Red Cross celebrates 75th Anniversary

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) celebrates its 75th Founding Anniversary, commemorating its development as the foremost humanitarian organization in the country that provides timely delivery of services to aid the most vulnerable.

The election of Sen. Richard J. Gordon in 2004 as Chairman and CEO saw the transformation of the PRC into a modern and well-equipped organization. The modernization and expansion program strengthened the logistics side of the PRC allowing for more timely delivery of services. Coupled with the growing number of volunteers inspired by Chairman Gordon’s vision and supported by information technology, the PRC fulfilled the equation “Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = A Red Cross that is always first, always ready, and always there.”

Witnessing the development of the Philippine Red Cross under the leadership of Chairman Gordon, many local and international entities are now motivated to find possible areas of partnerships with the PRC. With this, the PRC has become the partner of choice, strengthening other institutions by establishing a strong bond with the premier and most respected humanitarian organization in the country.

“Lubos akong nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga volunteers, staff, at partners na nagsisilbing kaagapay ng Red Cross sa walang humpay na pagtulong sa mga apektadong mamamayan ng ating bansa. Saludo ako sa inyong lahat na bumabangon araw-araw upang magbigay serbisyo sa kapwa ng walang pag-aalinlangan. Mabuhay kayong lahat!” Chairman Gordon said.

This year-long anniversary celebration will have the following focal activities.

– Recognition of Best Red Cross 143 Volunteers

– Donors Recognition Ceremony

– Million Volunteer Run 6 Culminating Activity (Face-to-Face at MOA Grounds)

– Blood Donor Recognition Day

– Pledge 25 Olympics Awarding and Members Appreciation Day

– Inauguration of Additional Blood Banks

– PRC Over the Years Trivia and Online Quiz for Staff and Volunteers

– Awarding of Ten Outstanding RCY (TORCY)

– 33rd Biennial Convention

– 2nd Humanitarian Media Award

– PRC 75th Anniversary Ball

– Launching and Distribution of 75th Anniversary Commemoration Coin

Philippine Red Cross’ Million Volunteer Run 6 extended to June 12, 2022

Written on May 13, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

This year’s annual Million Volunteer Run: Virtual Bike and Run Edition, organized by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and RUNRIO, is extended up to June 12, 2022. The International Humanitarian Million Volunteer Run (MVR) 6: Virtual Bike and Run Edition is a fun virtual duathlon, for cyclists and runners and those who want to get into shape or have a healthy lifestyle.

It is a non-competitive event that allows participants to finish their selected distance within a certain period, at their own pace, time, and venue. The event is open to Philippine and international participants. The MVR 6 culminates in a face-to-face activity on June 12, 2022.

Compared to the pre-pandemic MVRs, in which participants run together on the same date, time, and place, the MVR virtual edition allows participants to run and/or bike anytime during the race period. They are to record their activity through a GPS-tracking app or watch. They then upload their results to their account dashboard.

The MVR is a way for the public to join a community of volunteers who give their time, resources, and talents to help those who are made vulnerable by disasters and emergencies, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic and anticipated typhoons. The MVR is organized in collaboration with Holiday Inn Express, Ayala Foundation, Gatorade, Salonpas, and Pocari Sweat. To join, register at www.runrio.com.

Philippine Red Cross Dialysis Center serves more than 15,000 treatments in 3 years

Written on May 11, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

Chairman Dick Gordon talking to patient who is getting free hemodialysis treatment

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Dialysis Center was established in November 2018. Located in the old headquarters of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Radial Road 10, Port Area Manila, the Center has provided 15,006 treatments to 73 patients.

Dialysis is a treatment that helps mitigate the effect of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). PRC’s nephrologist warns that CKD may not manifest its symptoms during the early stages. PRC Chairman Senator Richard J. Gordon echoes the recommendations of nephrologists to get blood tested for creatinine and a urinalysis every six months. A history of kidney injury or an increase in creatinine levels may necessitate more frequent tests.

Those who may need to avail of the services of PRC’s Dialysis Facility may call (02) 8527 0000 or send an email to [email protected] to get more detail on how to avail of PRC’s services.

Philippine Red Cross Laguna Chapter opens new branch in Siniloan

Written on May 2, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events. Leave a Comment

In efforts to reach more people in need and to offer reliable help, Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and PRC Chairman and CEO Senator Richard ‘Dick’ J. Gordon welcomed a new branch of the Laguna Chapter in the multipurpose building of Barangay Wawa, Siniloan, Laguna on April 29. In attendance at the opening ceremony were Chapter Administrator Frank Gray Sorromero and members of the Laguna Chapter Board of Directors. The establishment of the PRC branch in Siniloan was made possible through the support of Mayor Rainier Leopando, whom Senator Gordon acknowledged in his speech.

Senator Gordon reminded the audience members at the opening ceremony that PRC is not a government entity, that volunteers compose it, that they do it without a salary, to uplift human dignity and alleviate human suffering. He lauded Red Cross volunteers for their leadership shown through action.

He emphasized the importance of “pagmamalasakit,” or compassion, which he and the PRC have stood for since its founding in 1947. He cited the Republic of Korea’s donation of a water tanker to the PRC and PRC’s assistance to other nations, like Ukraine. He also referred to the PRC’s contribution to the RT-PCR testing for Covid-19 in the Philippines; the PRC has conducted more than 5.5 million tests.

Senator Gordon also emphasized that even though the Red Cross helps the people, it is not about just giving away provisions but about empowering people. He says that as a leader, his goal is to strengthen people’s abilities. “Tumutulong tayo para may dangal at dignidad tayo,” Senator Gordon said.

Philippine Red Cross starts administering second Covid-19 booster shots to the elderly, immunocompromised

Written on April 28, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events. Leave a Comment

Diabetes patient Nicanor Viray, 85 years old, gets his Covid-19 second booster shot at the Philippine Red Cross.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) started administering second booster shots of Covid-19 vaccines today, April 27, 2022, in Mandaluyong City, to the elderly and the immunocompromised. The Philippines’ Department of Health announced last April 13, 2022 that the Food and Drug Administration has approved the administration of Covid-19 second booster shots to the elderly, the immunocompromised, and frontline health workers.

PRC Chairman and CEO, Senator Richard “Dick” J. Gordon, advised the immunocompromised who are fully vaccinated and have the first booster shot to get the second booster shot if the required time interval has lapsed. “Hinihikayat ko ang ating mga kababayan na immunocompromised na fully vaccinated at may first booster shot na kumuha ng second booster shot sa akmang panahon,” Chairman Gordon said.

The spouses Ninfa and Nicanor Viray, who are both elderly and immunocompromised, had their second booster shots at the PRC today. Ms. Viray, 84 years old, is a cancer patient who just had a mastectomy. Mr. Viray, 85 years old, is a diabetes patient. They both had their first booster in December 2021. The second booster shot against Covid-19 is given at

least four months after the first booster shot, but the interval could be earlier for other patients if prescribed by a doctor.

“That we’ll be more protected from more severe symptoms owing to our age. We’d like to be as protected as possible, considering that sometimes we are also compelled to go out of the house to buy some basic needs,” was Ms. Viray’s answer when asked what she hoped the second booster shot would do. She added that getting the second booster shot is part of their taking care of themselves, because their decisions about their health affect the rest of the family.

When asked how they would encourage other members of the elderly population to get vaccinated, Ms. Viray says she would show them how she and her husband have relative capacity to still enjoy life, because they can be mobile and interact with people with confidence despite their advanced years. Mr. Viray shares that his style is personal; he talks to his friends about the benefits of getting vaccinated.

Ms. Viray says they try to observe all the health protocols as much as possible, because they don’t want to abuse the new lease on life they are enjoying because of the protection that the vaccines give. Mr. Viray attests that since he got vaccinated, he has felt more assured that he is protected. The couple is keen on doing their share in educating the community about the collective nature and solution to the Covid-19 public health emergency.

The PRC’s vaccination efforts are part of its mandate as auxiliary to the government in its humanitarian tasks. The PRC started administering Covid-19 vaccines in March 2021. To date, it has administered 1,153,200 doses of Covid-19 vaccines and boosters through its Bakuna Centers, Bakuna Teams, and Bakuna Buses nationwide. It has fully vaccinated 367,985 individuals.

On TS Agaton: Long-term plan needed to ensure people have choices – Gordon

Written on April 18, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

In an interview with ABC Australia on Tropical Storm Agaton (international name: Megi) last April 13, 2022, via Skype, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO, Senator Richard “Dick” Gordon emphasized the need for a long-term plan to make sure people have the option to live in safe areas and not in dangerous ones, such as at the foot of mountains or near oceans. “There has to be a long-term plan, a big sit-down to ensure every province can make some alternatives for the people,” Chairman Gordon said.

This is the policy change Gordon wishes to see after the elections, he said when asked whether the campaign season has affected the Philippines’ assistance to areas hit by Agaton. He explained that the country will alleviate human suffering by making sure it prevents it by predicting the areas that are prone to disasters and adopting appropriate policies.

The Chairman has been an advocate of a national policy to move people living in dangerous areas to safer places. PRC built homes in a safer place for the survivors of the 2006 landslide in Barangay Guinsaugon, Saint Bernard town in Southern Leyte, which killed around 2,000 people. PRC also built or repaired homes for survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan), which caused ocean surges as high as six meters and devastated the Eastern Visayas region in 2013. Overall, the PRC has built or repaired 80,000 homes for survivors of calamities in Eastern Visayas.

Chairman Gordon swore that the Red Cross will be helping populations affected by TS Agaton in the long run, as it usually does for survivors of calamities. “The Red Cross will be here for the long haul, as usual,” Chairman Gordon said. He mentioned that the PRC is still assisting survivors of Super Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), which made landfall on Christmas eve of 2021.

Gordon mentioned some preparedness measures that can be adopted, such as having whistles to call for help during calamities, identifying high-risk areas and moving people, and training people especially for landslides. He highlighted the importance of having pre-positioned people and logistics in the regions, such as sirens, flares, pickax, shovel, payloader, torch and other lighting devices that can be used even at night.

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Category: Features