Philippine Red Cross | Humanitarian Organization in the Philippines

disaster management services philippines

philippine red cross

social welfare services philippines

blood donation philippines

volunteer services philippines

health and services philippines
red cross philippines
  • Home

Category: News and Events

The Philippine Red Cross provided 20,496 loaves of bread to support disaster-prone communities and fire-affected families in the National Capital Region from January to May 2023. This is in partnership with Gardenia Bakeries Philippines Inc. The loaves of bread have served as a vital source of nutrition for families struggling with the aftermath of disasters.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon expressed his gratitude for the partnership, stating, “Through our collaboration with Gardenia Bakeries, we are able to extend much-needed assistance to disaster-stricken communities. The provision of bread not only addresses immediate hunger but also brings hope and comfort to those affected.”

Freshly baked loaves of bread, along with other food items, are distributed by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to communities in need. Through the Food Donation Act of 2009, a law championed by PRC Chairman Gordon during his tenure as a senator, hotels, restaurants, and other organizations in the food industry also donate surplus food to the PRC, ensuring that it reaches those who need it most.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen T. Pang emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “The distribution of these food items demonstrates our commitment to serving the most vulnerable in society. We are thankful for the partnership with Gardenia, as it enables us to reach more individuals in need and provide them with essential sustenance.”

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang and PRC Board of Governors Vice Chairperson Corazon Alma De Leon led the distribution of 150 hygiene kits to the elderly inpatients of the Female Aged Care and Wellness Unit of the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) on 30 May. 

Dr. Pang, a nurse by profession, explained that a combination of internal factors, such as impairment and disabilities, and external factors, including physical environment, inequalities, discrimination, and stigma create obstacles for individuals to efficiently access and engage in hygienic practices. 

“The PRC acknowledges that individuals with specific needs face the detrimental effects of social stigma, which leads to lesser or even no participation and engagement on their part. Through our hygiene promotion and provision of hygiene kits, we hope they feel loved and not forgotten,” she added. 

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon has previously initiated programs for the NCMH, consistently highlighting the Red Cross’ commitment to ensuring that every individual has access to basic human needs. “The PRC develops initiatives to accommodate individuals with specific needs because they are important to us. We ensure their involvement in every phase and recognize that they are still part of our society. Never forgotten and always to be treated with dignity,” he stated.

The kit includes a bar soap, soap dish, hand towel, shampoo, toothbrush, and toothpaste. Dr. Cristina Palma, one of the medical officers overseeing the unit, said the provision of hygiene kits is essential to assist patients in maintaining cleanliness, adding that the arrival of their hygiene items is sometimes delayed or resources available at times may not be sufficient to accommodate all patients. 

In an effort to extend healthcare services to the most vulnerable sectors and communities in need, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Health Caravan provided free medical assistance to 27,842 people from January to May of 2023, across the country.

The Health Caravan program is a comprehensive range of services, such as health consultation, dental and optometry service, health and hygiene promotion, first aid lecture-demonstration, vaccination against measles, rubella, polio, and COVID-19, as well as bloodletting and blood typing service. Vitamins, over the counter medicines, hot meals and health kits are also distributed. 

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon stated, “The Philippine Red Cross is dedicated to making a positive impact on the health and well-being of our communities. Our Health Caravan demonstrates our commitment to providing vital medical services to those who need it most.”

“We are proud to have reached over 27,000 individuals through our Health Caravan in just the first five months of this year. The provision of essential healthcare services and the distribution of meals and health kits showcases our commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable in our society,” PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwendolyn T. Pang added.

The Philippine Red Cross continues to make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of individuals, promoting better health and well-being across communities.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) achieved a remarkable 100% passing rate in the 2022 External Quality Assessment Scheme (EQAS), conducted by the Transfusion Transmissible Infections-National Reference Laboratory (TTI-NRL) of the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM). This outstanding accomplishment underscores the PRC’s commitment to provide the highest quality blood and blood products to the communities it serves.

An EQAS evaluates participating laboratories based on the integrity of the entire sample testing process, ensuring accuracy and reliability of results. The PRC’s 30 Blood Centers have each been awarded Certificates of Proficiency, attesting to their exceptional performance and adherence to quality standards.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon congratulated the PRC staff and volunteers at the blood centers, stating, “We are immensely proud of our 30 Blood Centers for their exemplary achievement in the 2022 EQAS evaluation. This accomplishment reinforces our dedication to delivering the best possible care to our blood recipients.”

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwendolyn Pang also commended the achievement, saying, “The 100% passing rate in the EQAS is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our staff. It highlights the rigorous standards we uphold in providing safe and reliable blood transfusion services. Congratulations to all involved.”

The Philippine Red Cross remains steadfast in its commitment to maintain the highest standards in laboratory testing. By consistently observing best practices, the PRC ensures the safety and well-being of those who depend on their services.

#####

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental – On May 29, 2023, a smoke inhalation incident occurred during a Physical Education Examination at Bacolod City College, prompting a swift response from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Bacolod City – Negros Occidental Chapter and other local rescue agencies. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM and was caused by a chemical brought by a class of students for an experiment, resulting in chemical poisoning as reported by the school doctor. A total of 22 individuals were affected by the smoke inhalation and chemical exposure.

“Emergencies like the smoke inhalation incident at Bacolod City College remind us of the importance of preparedness and swift action. PRC is dedicated to providing immediate assistance in such situations, and I commend our team in Bacolod City who responded promptly to ensure the well-being of those affected. We remain committed to our mission of saving lives and serving the community in times of need,” said PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon.

PRC’s response included dispatching one ambulance with four emergency medical services personnel to provide immediate medical assistance. The medical team treated 14 individuals on the scene who were experiencing symptoms such as hyperventilation and dizziness, stemming from the chemical exposure.

The PRC encourages the public to prioritize safety and adhere to proper protocols when handling chemicals or engaging in experiments to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As of 3:00 PM on May 30, 2023, various Philippine Red Cross chapters across the nation has reported light to moderate rains including La, Union, Baguio, and Cagayan. Currently, preemptive evacuations are in effect in some areas of Cagayan and Ilocos Norte. Check out these photos to see our preparedness efforts for potential hazards like landslides, thunderstorms, and flooding.

Stay informed, follow our official page and accounts for more updates on Typhoon Betty (Mawar). Our chapters across the nation are monitoring the situation closely.

Stay safe, everyone! 💪🔴🔵 #TyphoonBetty #PhilippineRedCross #StaySafe

Residents of Barangay Muzon San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan came to participate in the second bloodletting activity of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and RMN Foundation last 22 May. Dubbed “Dugtong-Buhay 2023 Caravan” the blood donation drive collected a total of 78 blood units.

Earlier this year, the two organizations conducted similar activities in General Santos City and Cavite City. The co-organized blood donation activities are a testament to the PRC and RMN Foundation’s commitment to serving the public together; a commitment which they strengthened and renewed through a Memorandum of Understanding last March.

Rowena Bolivar, a consistent donor, shared her experience of how a single bag of blood saved the life of her aunt, a breast cancer patient. A unit of blood can save the lives of multiple people. According to PRC Blood Services, red cells, platelets, and plasma are among the transfusable components that can be derived from donated blood. Patients may receive a pint of whole blood or only the specific components of the blood that are required to treat their particular condition.

Apart from assisting PRC in disseminating information about its rescue, relief, and recovery activities and programs, PRC Chairman and CEO, Richard J. Gordon expressed gratitude to RMN for continuously helping the humanitarian organization raise awareness about the global need for safe blood.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang also extended greetings and appreciation to those who willingly showed compassion and selflessness by donating blood to save lives.

For blood donations, blood requests, and other inquiries, email the PRC National Blood Services at [email protected] or contact the PRC Blood Call Center, which may be reached nationwide by dialing 143.

🚑💙 Bringing Medical Care to Communities: An initiative of Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard J. Gordon, the PRC Health Caravan has provided free medical services to thousands of individuals across the nation from January to May.

This week, our dedicated volunteers and staff from PRC chapters in Bohol, Cavite, Baguio, and Ilocos offered health consultations, vaccinations, bloodletting, and more. “The PRC Health Caravan remains committed to extending healthcare services to every corner of the nation,” says PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

🏥✨ PRC’s Health Caravan also promoted health and hygiene practices, conducted first aid lectures, and distributed hot meals and health kits. Through these efforts, PRC hopes to make a positive impact on the lives of thousands, building healthier and stronger communities! 💙🌍

The actual signing of the memorandum of agreement for the turnover of the Rotary’s 270 donated wheelchairs to the PRC happened last 25 May, 2023 at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong. 

The donated wheelchairs will be distributed to numerous people with mobility impairments in the country to help them cope with their health conditions. The beneficiaries will be identified and assessed by the PRC and  Rotary Club members. 

“I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to the Rotary for giving us 270 wheelchairs to be distributed for our beneficiaries around the country. Malaking tulong ito upang bigyan sila ng saya at pag-asa sa buhay. The MOA signing between the two organizations today proves that we remain their partner of choice. Just like the Rotary’s mission to create lasting change in the world, the PRC is also committed to make this world a better place for all,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon. 

PRC’s Secretary General, Dr. Gwen Pang, also expressed her gratitude to the Rotary, “Being a member of the Rotary Club of Manila 101 and PRC’s current Secretary General,  I’m so proud and elated to be able to witness the strengthened partnership between my two beloved organizations. Maraming salamat, Rotary sa pagsuporta sa Philippine Red Cross noon at ngayon.” 

The Rotary is a network of 1.4 million passionate people from around the world aiming to use their skills, energy, and intelligence to take action in various sustainable projects. Since 2006, the Rotary has been able to provide various assistance to the PRC and its chapters: monetary assistance for typhoon survivors, vehicle donations used for crisis situations, emergency equipment, and blood donation campaigns, to name a few. 

“One of the most courageous acts is self-identification, where you acknowledge your true self, comprehend your core beliefs, and envision the path you want to pursue. In the Red Cross Youth, we empower future leaders. I encourage Red Cross volunteers to always make our presence felt positively. It’s not enough that we do something; we must do things with a positive impact.

I salute Rojan, Jeslan and Nicole, and I am proud of them because as Red Cross Youth they have shown self worth and self confidence and it helped them get to PMA, where they excelled and became the true leaders we have always known them to be.”

These extraordinary individuals have demonstrated unwavering dedication and determination as members of the Red Cross Youth. Their commitment has paved the way for their success at the PMA, where they have excelled and emerged as the true leaders we have always known them to be.

As Red Cross volunteers, you have the power to make a positive impact on the lives of others. It’s not just about doing something; it’s about ensuring that our presence is felt in a way that uplifts and inspires those around us.
Be part of the Red Cross Youth and be part of an environment where future leaders can thrive. Email [email protected] today to know more!

Philippine Red Cross

Born officially in 1947, but with roots that traces back to the revolutionary days, the Philippine Red Cross has truly become the premier humanitarian organization in the country, committed to provide quality life-saving services that protect the life and dignity especially of indigent Filipinos in vulnerable situations.

Address: 37 EDSA corner Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550
Emergency Hotline: 143
Trunkline +63 2 8790 2300
Subscribe to our Newsletter

Follow Us

Check out our Apps

Copyright 2024 Philippine Red Cross