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Red Cross to schools: Embrace volunteerism, engage students to volunteer 

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MANILA, Philippines —- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is urging schools and their leaders to help ignite the spirit of volunteerism in the youth. 

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang was invited as a resource speaker in the 17th annual Commission on Accreditation for Local Colleges and Universities (ALCUCOA) National Conference on December 13 at the Diamond Hotel, Manila. 

In her talk titled, “Amplifying Student Learning through Volunteerism: The Perspective of the Philippine Red Cross,” Dr. Pang stressed the significant role and responsibility of schools in fostering volunteerism among the youth. 

“We have to incorporate volunteerism in the school today because we are responsible for continuing the generations of humanitarian volunteers. Through your students, you have the power to mold the future of our country and humanity. Volunteerism teaches empathy, teamwork, and leadership. Many educators believe it’s one of the best ways to build responsible citizenry. If we want to nurture citizens who embody a willingness to help and profound love for others, we have to support and provide programs that will help teach those in the school,” she said. 

She shared her experience as a Red Cross Youth (RCY) volunteer back when she was a young college girl in Jolo, Sulu, emphasizing how her humble beginnings as a youth volunteer helped her realize her passion for humanitarian work, leading to 27 years in the service with the Red Cross Movement. 

“School is about how we hone the young people, so I thank my school for honing me to be a leader. Through the Red Cross I gained those values and skills. I grew up in the Red Cross learning the importance of compassion, resilience, and leadership.” 

Beyond that, Dr. Pang encouraged schools, especially the over 100 members of ALCUCOA led by President Dr. Raymundo Arcega, to partner with the PRC in establishing and strengthening their volunteer campaigns through PRC’s various programs on community outreach, basic first and CPR training, disaster management and response, health awareness and promotion initiatives, and blood donation drives among others. 

She also emphasized the PRC’s eagerness to engage with schools to build RCY councils, encourage faculty involvement, integrate volunteer work in the curriculum and NSTP programs, and connecting schools with local PRC chapters and branches, in order to harness the volunteering spirit of students.  

In a message relayed by Dr. Pang at the event, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon said: “It is important that we teach our youth the value of volunteerism to bring out the best in them, and the willingness to work for a cause, and not just for compensation. Let’s hone the youth of today, values for the country.”

The PRC is the country’s foremost volunteer-based humanitarian organization, with more than two million active volunteers in the country. Individuals interested in volunteering for the PRC may visit or contact their nearest PRC chapter or branch. 

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Over 5,700 Filipinos receive life-saving care in PH Red Cross, Lifebank Foundation health caravans

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MANDALUYONG CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Lifebank Microfinance Foundation, Inc.’s joint health caravan initiative has provided essential healthcare assistance and treatment to a total of 5,732 Filipinos across the country, aligned with the organization’s fervent advocacy to ensure the wellbeing of communities.

The PRC and Lifebank held 17 health caravans from September to November this year, reaching a total of 271 communities in Laguna, Cavite, Baguio, Ozamiz City, Zambales, Tarlac, Southern Leyte, Masbate, Occidental Mindoro, Albay, Camarines Sur, Negros Oriental, Nueva Ecija, Bukidnon, Cebu, Batangas, and Misamis Oriental.

Among the services given were free health consultation, health check-ups, basic medications, blood typing, health promotion and disease awareness activities. Hot meals were also provided to the beneficiaries.

“Health caravans have been a staple of the Red Cross’ health services as we endeavor to help Filipinos build strong and healthy communities. We are thankful to our partner, Lifebank Microfinance Foundation, whose support has enabled us to serve thousands of our most vulnerable people in many parts of the country,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang added: “Health is a fundamental human right, yet many people in the Philippines still do not have access to affordable, comprehensive healthcare due to financial constraints or living conditions among other matters. In the Red Cross, we are steadfast in our mission to bring healthcare to these underserved communities at no cost.”

This health caravan initiative will not be possible without the active involvement of PRC’s Medical Corps Volunteers and RC143 Volunteers. In this partnership, the PRC was able to mobilize 103 volunteer doctors, 73 volunteer nurses, and 301 RC143 volunteers.

The PRC’s chapters and branches nationwide regularly conduct health caravans as part of the organization’s health services. From January to November 2024, the PRC has conducted 510 health caravans, which have reached more than 1,000 communities and served over 131,632 individuals.

PH Red Cross calls on the youth to ‘be volunteers, be heroes’ 

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MARIKINA CITY, Philippines —- Heroes are not born, but made. For this year’s International Volunteers Day last December 5, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) salutes every single one of our two million volunteers nationwide, and urges many more Filipinos, especially the youth, to join us in saving lives. 

On December 7, the PRC Marikina Chapter initiated a mass cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) demonstration and mass bloodletting activity to showcase the power of PRC’s Red Cross Youth (RCY) volunteers, proving that the spirit of volunteerism remains alive in the younger generation. 2,000 members of RCY councils in many senior high schools, state universities, and colleges in Marikina performed CPR within a “human cross” formation at the city’s Sports Center Complex, symbolizing the Red Cross emblem of protection and aid. 

“This demonstration shows the strength of the Red Cross volunteer system, as well as the importance of volunteerism against a world of greed and lost values. We urge people and families to join the Red Cross and help restore and reinvigorate our flagging value systems. We always say that our volunteers are our heroes, and heroes are not made in a day. They are molded through proper training, mentorship, and years of selfless service, which the PRC provides. Whether you’re old or young, no day is too late to start your journey as a volunteer. It’s never too late to be a hero,” remarked PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon. 

“Kudos to the Marikina Chapter, led by Chapter Administrator Jenny de Guzman, Chapter Chairman Serafin “Bojie” Bernardino, and the Marikina Chapter Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers for the success of this great initiative,” he added. 

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang, who began as a RCY leader and career staff of the Red Cross Movement, remarked: “I know each and every one of you has the willingness to save lives. With all you have learned and gained from your PRC mentors like new skills and experiences, we hope they lead you to greater heights.”

Among the schools that participated in the event were the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMAR), Far Eastern University (FEU) Roosevelt, Marikina Polytechnic College (MPC), San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila School of Marikina City, St. Scholastica’s Academy Marikina, Nuestra Señora De Guia Academy of Marikina Inc., Marikina Institute of Technology, Marikina Catholic School, and STI College Marikina.

RCY volunteers Lian Marsamulo (19 years-old) and Inna Tabuena (20 years-old), both from PLMAR, shared that they chose to be volunteers in order to be more aware and gain knowledge on how to help people, especially when accidents occur in their communities, citing the importance of having basic skills on first aid and CPR. 

For teenagers, try po natin sumali sa Red Cross o ibang voluntary groups kasi nakakenjoy po siya, and at the same time, madami ka pong natututunan habang nakakatulong ka po sa ibang mga tao,” said Jaychelle Magno (16 years-old), Secretary of the RCY Council of Nuestra Señora De Guia Academy of Marikina Inc. 

Meanwhile, Ms. Gina Tenerife (53 years-old), RC143 Team Leader of Barangay Malanday, said that her experience as a volunteer for nearly two years has allowed her to be proactive in her community, sharing that she had become someone her community can call on and take charge when emergencies happen, such as when her neighbor needed immediate medical attention. “Sa mga komunidad natin, kailangan natin ng RC143 volunteer kasi mas mabilis ang pagtulong agad, hindi iisipin pa kung sino ang tutulong sayo.” 

The PRC is the country’s foremost volunteer-based humanitarian organization, with more than two million active volunteers in the country. Individuals interested in volunteering for the PRC may visit or contact their nearest PRC chapter or branch. 

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DBM, MMDA PARTNER WITH PHIL RED CROSS TO SUPPORT ITS HUMANITARIAN MISSIONS

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PASIG CITY, PHILIPPINES—The Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) came together on December 12 to sign a memorandum of agreement that sets the stage for organizing the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Fun Run, an event aimed at supporting the PRC’s humanitarian causes.

The first-ever fun run aims to raise awareness about the country’s hosting of the 2025 OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting, scheduled from February 5 to 7, next year. Its objective is to emphasize and advance the principles of transparency, accountability, and public engagement in governance.

The 2025 OGP Fun Run is set to happen on January 26 at the Quirino Grandstand.

“Let me recognize the PRC and Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang for your steadfast support for the humanitarian efforts of DBM. Know that our partnership is deeply valued, and we remain committed to supporting your initiatives. The agreement we signed today officially inaugurated the first-ever OGP Fun Run. This is a pioneer event that serves as a vital precursor to the highly anticipated 2025 OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting,” said DBM Secretary Amenah “Mina” Pangandaman.

“This isn’t just a run, but a rally for the principles that define good governance. Through this run, we’re not just breaking a sweat, we are also supporting the PRC in its vital humanitarian missions,” she added.

“We at MMDA pledge our utmost support and commitment in order to ensure the success of this event that will benefit the PRC and its humanitarian missions. We’re excited about this initiative that will promote physical fitness and raise awareness about the OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting,” MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes remarked. 

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang mentioned that the PRC has been a trusted ally of the DBM and MMDA. The fun run proceeds will directly support critical PRC programs like disaster response, assistance for those affected by conflict, and the provision of life-saving blood.

The race is open to the public. Participants may choose from three race categories: 3KM (P700), 5KM, (P800), and 10KM (P1,000). Registration fee covers event materials including official fun run shirts and race bibs. The event program will begin at 3:30 a.m. with the official gun start scheduled for 4:30 a.m. 

Other information including registration and payment processes will be announced soon. 

1,067 Blood Bags Secured: PH Red Cross, DBM’s ‘Dugtong Buhay Movement’ caps 2024 strong with holiday bloodletting

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MANILA, Philippines — Harnessing the wide sphere and sheer power of the public and private sectors, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)’s joint bloodletting initiative, “Dugtong Buhay Movement,” has already collected a total of 1,067 blood units in its first five-month rollout, serving as a testament to many Filipinos’ readiness to help secure the nation’s blood supply. 

With the contributions of the Movement, the PRC has collected a total of 544,663 blood units from January to date this year, surpassing the 538,769 units collected in 2023. The blood collected and dispensed have been able to help save the lives of 276,851 patients. 

Through the leadership of DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, and the steadfast support of PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang, the blood drive has amassed highly-influential partners such as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, the local government of San Fernando, La Union, and iAcademy; all of whom have pledged to engage their constituents in regular voluntary blood donations. 

On December 6, it conducted its fifth mass bloodletting drive, this time in partnership with the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) – Philippine General Hospital (PGH) in Ermita, Manila. UP’s affiliate organizations (UP Pahinungod, Phi Kappa Mu and Mu Sigma Phi Fraternities, and Phi Lambda Delta and Mu Sigma Phi Sororities) and personnel from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) also volunteered to donate their blood in the program. A total of 154 blood units were collected during the activity. 

“We are happy and proud to be a partner of DBM. Ensuring our country has an ample blood supply is a whole team, whole nation effort. With Secretary Amenah at the helm, DBM has put so much love in this initiative that we’ve done together since August. Sec. Amenah has been very hands-on in ensuring the success of these blood drives, and because of that great leadership, the Philippine Red Cross is 100 percent committed to the Dugtong Buhay Movement. We hope we inspire more partners to join us because we have been able to help many patients through the blood we have collected,” said Dr. Pang, 

She also stressed the PRC’s dedication to helping PGH, which is at the top of the PRC’s blood supply distribution network. Just this year, the PRC has provided the PGH with 12,856 blood bags, aiding 3,735 patients. In the past, the PRC and PGH have collaborated on establishing a field hospital during the measles outbreak, augmenting equipment and staff of the health unit, creating a triage area and providing personal protective equipment (PPEs) to PGH frontliners. 32 students under a PRC scholarship are also currently studying in UP Manila College of Medicine. 

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon also expressed his support for the blood donation program, noting that the PRC will continue to mobilize its health units, volunteers, and staff, as well as provide resources, to ensure the success of all the mass bloodletting activities under the Dugtong Buhay Movement. 

Meanwhile, Secretary Pangandaman thanked the PRC, PCG, and PNP, who have been her constant partners in this initiative since day one. “Sa lahat ng ating mga donors at volunteers, maraming-maraming salamat po. Truly you are not just life savers, but life givers.” 

“Sa inyong partisipasyon, pinapakita ninyo ang tunay na diwa ng pagkakaisa at serbisyo na nagpapalakas ng ating komunidad. Napakahalaga ng aktibidad na ito dahil nakapagbibigay tayo ng isang bagay na libre pero walang katumbas na halaga — ang pagdugtong ng buhay. Araw-araw, madaming tao, lalo na ang mga bata, ang nangangailangan nito. Sa bawat dugong ibinabahagi natin, natutulungan natin ang mga nangangailangan tulad ng mga pasyenteng may cancer, mga nanay at nanganganak, at mga biktima ng aksidente na makasama ang kanilang mga mahal sa buhay ng mas matagal pa. Ngayong holiday season, ang dugong inyong handog ay maituturing na po nating maagang pamasko para sa mga nangangailangan. Nakakataba po sa puso na makitang habang lumilipas ang panahon, patuloy na lumalawak ang saklaw at epekto ng ating inisyatiba. Habang tumatagal dumadami po ang ating mga partners at volunteers na handang tumulong. Mas lumalaki po ang ating Dugtong Buhay Movement,” she said. 

Moreover, UPM-PGH Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi, and UPM Chancellor Dr. Michael L. Tee shared their gratitude and delight to have the institution as part of the Movement since the demand for blood is very high in the hospital, seeing as they serve 700,000 patients a year  and conduct around 30,000 operations. 

Other key guests who gave messages of support for the initiative at the event were PCG National Capital Region (NCR) – Central Luzon Acting Commander Commo. Arnaldo M. Lim, Manila Police District (MPD) Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, and BJMP Medical Division Chief JSupt. John Paul Borlongan.   

The PRC is the country’s major blood supplier with 108 blood service facilities, 32 blood centers, 76 blood collecting stations, and 15 apheresis centers nationwide. Under the directive of Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon, the PRC aims to provide 70 percent of the country’s overall supply of blood.

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PH Red Cross receives P1.2 M donation from PHILCONSA for storm-affected communities

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MAKATI CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) received a generous donation worth P1.2 million from the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA) to support relief efforts for families and individuals affected by the recent storms and typhoons that battered parts of the country.

The donation was turned over to PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon by PHILCONSA President Speaker Martin Romualdez, Chief Justice Tess De Castro, Gov. Inky Reyes, Gov. Baby Ortiz, and PHILCONSA’s Board of Directors in a brief ceremony in Makati City on December 5.

P200,000 of the P1.2 million donation was given by PHILCONSA Member and Board Member of PRC Manila Chapter Nelia Sarcol.

Gordon delivered a short message at the event, thanking PHILCONSA’s members for choosing to donate to the PRC this holiday season. “The Philippine Red Cross would like to thank you on behalf of all the vulnerable people in the country. In a month, a steady attack of storms and typhoons bombarded our country, leaving many Filipinos displaced, lacking basic resources, losing livelihoods. I assure you that your donation will really come a long way.”.

“As we say, ‘We gather light to scatter.’ You’ve shown that whatever you have contributed is hope, not really the amount, but what is in the heart. To the many people without food, water, shelter – those are the people we need to look after especially this season, ” he added.

PHILCONSA had previously donated P350,000 to the PRC back in 2013 to support efforts for Typhoon Haiyan.

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Salute to our Unsung Heroes: PH Red Cross affirms support for NKTI’s organ donation advocacy

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 QUEZON CITY, Philippines —- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) affirmed its support to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI)’s valiant efforts to advocate for organ donation during the unveiling of the hospital’s new monument, “Vita Infinitum,” commemorating deceased organ donors who have helped save countless Filipino lives.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang emphasized that NKTI is a trusted partner of the Philippine Red Cross in the noble mission of organ donation. “As we continue this vital collaboration, the PRC reaffirms its unwavering support to NKTI’s organ donation advocacy. Through our extensive networks of chapters, volunteers, and committee programs, we are committed to raising awareness about the impact of organ donation. Together, we will work together to educate communities, dispel misconceptions, and inspire more Filipinos to see organ donation as a gift of hope and life to humanity. Our shared vision goes beyond advocacy. We stand united in offering psychosocial support to grieving families, ensuring they feel valued and respected during such critical times. We also remain steadfast in training more PRC volunteers and health advocates to facilitate organ donation with compassion and dignity, honoring both the donors and families.” 

“The PRC is embracing the vision of transformative collaboration as we strengthen partnerships with various organizations to deepen our impact in communities nationwide. We are in full support of the NKTI’s tireless efforts in organ donation and transplantation, as we share common goals to protect life, alleviate human suffering, and uplift human dignity,” added PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon.

“Vita Infinitum,” meaning “infinity of life,” was erected as a tribute to deceased organ donors of NKTI since the hospital’s establishment in 1983. It was built by NKTI, in partnership with the Rotary Club of San Juan Supreme, Eisenhower, and San Juan Neopolitan. 

“We honor the selfless generosity, act of charity, and eternal love of their families, whose gifts have transformed and extended the lives of our countless patients. They donated their kidneys, liver, pancreas, cornea, and even bones, and soon we have embarked on the heart and lung transplant. This [monument] highlights the role of NKTI to strengthen the deceased organ donation, in providing life saving care for individuals. This is a powerful reminder of our unsung heroes. They will not be forgotten,” said NKTI Executive Director Dr. Rose Rosete-Liquete.

The unveiling ceremony, held on December 5 at the NKTI Grounds in Quezon City, was graced by NKTI Executive Director Dr. Rosete-Liquete, PRC Secretary General Dr. Pang, Dr. Enrique Ona, former Secretary of Health and former NKTI Executive Director; heads of the Philippine Lung Center, Philippine Heart Center, rotary clubs, and representatives from the Kidney Transplant Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KITAP) and other groups. 

Ms. Maria Pauline Saldaña also gave her testimony as a liver transplant recipient of NKTI’s organ donor program after battling cirrhosis (or severe scarring of the liver). “To everyone who is able. I hope you choose to be a donor. You can help prevent a tragedy, and transform it into a legacy that would live on and be a blessing to extend people’s lives. Every donation is such a precious gift you can choose to give.” 

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SACRED HEART HOSPITAL MALOLOS INC. PARTNERS WITH PH RED CROSS TO ENSURE SUFFICIENT BLOOD SUPPLY FOR VULNERABLE PATIENTS     

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MANDALUYONG,  PHILIPPINES – With the mission to save more lives through the provision of immediate access to safe, affordable, adequate, and quality blood supply, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos, Inc. inked a memorandum of agreement for blood supply distribution at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong on December 2. 

The MOA states that the PRC will continue to provide blood to Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos, ensuring a steady blood supply for patients in need of blood transfusion to survive, especially the poor. The Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos is the new addition to the roster of partner hospitals of the PRC alongside Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Luke’s Medical Center, AC Healthway Cancer Care Center, and Manila Doctors Hospital. 

“The vision is really simple: when you need blood, you must have it. Speed is the name of the game. When patients are asked to bring in more people to hospitals for their blood needs, that’s stressful; when they’re asked to pay for it, that’s even more stressful! We are in the vocation of alleviating the suffering of vulnerable people so we’re easing the burden not only on patients, but their families. Hindi na nila kailangang magpunta sa amin para sa dugo, we will deliver blood to their doorsteps. Makatitipid din ang mga ospital dahil hindi na nila kailangang magbayad ng tao para kumuha ng dugo dahil kami mismo ang magdadala sa ospital. We’ve been doing blood collection for 78 years, kaya naming mag-supply ng dugo sa buong bansa,” PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon reiterated. 

Meanwhile, Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos President and CEO Renerio Jover mentioned that “this new development that the Red Cross has envisioned is fantastic. It will help hospitals because securing blood for patients is very challenging especially if you’re far from the source. I hope you can escalate this to more hospitals in far-flung provinces.” 

“Today marks another significant milestone to ensure that every patient receives the care they need. The marching order of Chairman Gordon is that no one will be turned away if they need blood. We thank the Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos for this partnership and we hope that this will inspire more hospitals to partner with us as well,” PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang added. 

Prior to the MOA signing, the PRC through its Bulacan Chapter has been supplying blood to Sacred Heart Hospital Malolos. From January to November this year, the PRC provided 766 blood units to 435 patients.

PH Red Cross showcases best practices, affirms ties with the Embassy of France through QC learning visit

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QUEZON CITY, Philippines — As a testament to its commitment to uplifting human dignity and alleviating human suffering, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) showcased its best practices in health, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), emergency response, First Aid, and volunteer engagement to the Embassy of France to the Philippines and to Micronesia, one of the PRC’s long standing partners in humanitarian service.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang, along with PRC volunteers and personnel from the national headquarters and Quezon City Chapter, warmly welcomed H. E. Marie Fontanel, Ambassador of France to the Philippines, during her learning visit to Batasan Hills on December 2.

Dr. Pang shared that this learning visit aimed to highlight the PRC’s deep connection to communities through constant engagement with the people, mobilization and training of Red Cross 143 volunteers and Red Cross Youth (RCY) at the grassroots level.

“The French government and French Red Cross have been invaluable partners in our humanitarian mission in the country, especially in their support for our efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (“Haiyan”). Together we built homes and lives, and restored hope to the people who were really hit hard by the storm. Ambassador Fontanel’s visit really reaffirms our shared commitment to alleviate suffering and promote human dignity. With her support, we can surely continue to build resilient communities, give hope, and save lives for a safer future for the Filipino people,” she said.

Ambassador Fontanel remarked: “The Philippine Red Cross is one of the most dedicated and committed [national societies] all over the world. Knowing that the Philippines is the most exposed to disasters in the world, you are the one who can teach other countries on how to find the strength, find the resilience to cope from all the typhoons you have experienced.”

The visit began at the Batasan Hills National High School, one of the most populous schools in the country, and home to the PRC’s strongest and most active RCY groups. Students were taught basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), wherein around 100 students and members of the school’s RCY joined the CPR demonstration.

They were also briefly given lectures on DRRM, the early warning system, and the importance of disaster preparedness. The booths featured the emergency “Go Bag,” and the virtual reality (VR) tool used for disaster response training.

The PRC also presented one of its food trucks, which is deployed to assist in the distribution of hot meals and food packs in times of disasters. At the Batasan Hills Barangay Hall, the PRC set up its mobile clinic for its “Health on Wheels” initiative, with beneficiaries lined up for health check ups, and volunteers ready to provide basic medicines.

Moreover, the delegation headed to the PRC Quezon City Chapter office to view the Command Center, and meet the chapter’s lively RC143 and RCY volunteers.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon extended his thanks to the French Ambassador and the French Red Cross (FRC) for their unwavering support for the PRC’s programs.

From 2014 to 2015, the PRC partnered with the FRC, France-Philippines United Action and Habitat for Humanity Philippines for a housing, livelihood, and access to basic services project for people affected by Typhoon Haiyan in Northern Cebu. Through the project, 128 houses in the Red Cross Village in Barangay Paypay, Daan Bantayan were built, along with a livelihood center, day-care center, and barangay health center. Solar panels were also provided by the Electriciens Sans Frontieres, in partnership with the FRC, in the Red Cross Village and Mandaue Warehouse.

On the Road to Recovery: PH Red Cross sends food truck and welfare team to Polillo Island, shelter repair kits to Cagayan

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MANDALUYONG CITY, Philippines — Even as the weather begins to ease after four weeks of non-stop tropical cyclones and typhoons, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) continues to mobilize its full force of volunteers, staff, assets, and resources in hard-hit provinces to help all affected communities have access to basic necessities and support as they recover their homes and livelihoods after the storm.

A caravan, consisting of a food truck and response team of volunteers and staff together with a drone operator from the local chapter, was deployed to Polillo Island, which was battered by fierce winds and heavy rains by Super Typhoon Pepito (“Man-yi”) after Catanduanes.

The food truck and team arrived at 12 nn on November 20, in Polillo from the PRC Quezon-Lucena Chapter after nearly eight hours of land and sea travel overnight, passing by Lumban and Famy, Laguna to the Port of Real in Quezon to get to the island. The food truck is currently in Sitio Corrigidor, Barangay Libjo and the response and assessment team will visit different municipalities such as Burdeos, Patnanungan and the island of Jomalig.

The PRC Quezon team has conducted assessment activities in communities, prepared hot meals for evacuees, as well as set up welfare desks, health stations, first aid stations, and conducted psychosocial support, health and hygiene promotion in evacuation centers and communities.

Meanwhile, a separate caravan of trucks loaded with corrugated galvanized iron (CGI) sheets, PGI sheets, and shelter tool kits (which contain a handsaw, shovel, nails, ropes, and other construction tools) will be headed to PRC Cagayan Chapter from PRC’s warehouse in Subic. This is in addition to the continuous response of the PRC to the affected families because of the multiple cyclones from cyclone Marce, Nika, Ofel to Pepito.

These materials will be distributed to assist people in rebuilding or strengthening their homes especially those families whose houses were damaged by the storms.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon stressed that these caravans are part of post-disaster relief efforts to help individuals and families recover with dignity from the storms.

“In the Red Cross, we believe that the help we extend must be holistic and forward-looking. When the typhoon is slashing through an area, our volunteers’ hot meals and welfare services bring the warmth of home away from home, especially as families stay in evacuation centers for long stretches of time. But for the future, we provide roofing materials and construction tools so they can strengthen their homes to withstand the next storm, and more importantly, begin rebuilding their lives. As we alleviate human suffering, we must also uplift human dignity, ” said Gordon.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang added: “This is a crucial time since it’s in the aftermath of a storm where you can really see the extent of the damages done to communities, properties, and livelihoods. Many communities, especially remote ones, have been deprived of basic needs, and it is our mission to help them bounce back. We will see to it that our relief operations continue until every single family is able to recover from this disaster.”

In its operations for Super Typhoon Pepito, as of November 21, the PRC has given hot meals to over 29,000 individuals, psychological first aid to 3,000 people, and provided child-friendly spaces that has benefitted more than 500 children, according to the PRC’s Operations Center. 30,000 liters of water have been distributed, while more than 3,500 individuals have participated in disease prevention and hygiene promotion activities.

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.

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