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Tag: Dick Gordon

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS REMINDS PUBLIC: THIS NEW YEAR, GIVE PATIENTS A NEW LEASE ON LIFE THROUGH BLOOD DONATIONS

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MANDALUYONG CITY — As the country welcomes the New Year, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is calling on the public to start the year by giving patients a new lease on life through blood donation.

While the holiday season and gift-giving celebrations may have ended, the need for blood remains constant. Hospitals continue to rely on a steady blood supply for emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, and life-saving treatments such as cancer care and dialysis. Historically, blood donations decline in the weeks before, during, and after the holidays as people return to work, school, and their daily routines. This ushers in what is known as the annual “lean months” for blood supply.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon emphasized that the New Year is an opportunity to extend the spirit of generosity beyond celebrations. “The New Year is a time for fresh starts and renewed hope. By donating blood, we are giving patients a second chance at life. Blood is needed every single day, and this simple act of compassion can make the difference between life and death,” said Chairman Gordon.

The post-holiday period often sees fewer mobile blood drives in schools and offices, making walk-in donors especially vital in sustaining the country’s blood supply. During these lean months, voluntary blood donors play a critical role in ensuring that hospitals remain prepared for both routine procedures and unexpected emergencies.

“Even as the year changes, the need for blood does not. Patients continue to undergo surgeries, mothers give birth, and emergencies can happen without warning. Donating blood at the start of the year is a powerful way to turn goodwill and compassion into action that saves lives,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

With 110 blood service facilities all over the country, the PRC encourages healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to visit their nearest Red Cross blood donation center or mobile blood drive. Donors are advised to get enough rest, eat before donating, and bring a valid ID.

By choosing to donate blood this New Year, the public helps ensure that safe and sufficient blood is available when every second matters.

For updates on blood donation sites and scheduled drives, follow the Philippine Red Cross on its official social media channels or contact the nearest PRC chapter.

In case of emergencies, call the PRC Hotline 143.

For blood donations, visit https://redcross.org.ph/give-blood/ 

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need.

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY 2025 WITH THE THEME “PRC 143 VOLUNTEERS IN EVERY BARANGAY: LOCAL EVERYWHERE. EVERY CONTRIBUTION COUNTS”

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MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) celebrated International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2025 on December 6 at the PRC Logistics & Multipurpose Center in Mandaluyong City, gathering thousands of RC 143 volunteers from chapters nationwide, both onsite and online. Although IVD is globally celebrated on the fifth of December, PRC moved its celebration to December 6 to allow volunteers to travel safely, avoid heavy traffic, and participate fully.

This year’s theme, “PRC 143 Volunteers In Every Barangay: Local Everywhere. Every Contribution Counts” emphasizes how volunteers serve their own neighborhoods yet create a nationwide humanitarian impact, regardless of how small or big the act of service or volunteerism is. The Rizal and Quezon City Chapters recorded the highest turnout of attendees. Moreover, the celebration was hosted by Sam Oh, a Korean TV and radio personality who has lived in the Philippines for two decades and who proudly volunteers with PRC.

In his message, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon honored the vital role of volunteers, stating, “Everything we accomplish—from reaching remote communities to responding swiftly in times of crisis—is possible because of our volunteers’ unwavering dedication. They are our eyes, arms, and legs on the ground, bringing relief, restoring dignity, and offering hope to those affected by disasters. While today is dedicated to honoring them, we truly celebrate them every day as heroes who put others first before themselves.”

PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn T. Pang also echoed this tribute in her welcome remarks, saying, “The movement has always been built on ordinary people who choose to act extraordinarily for others. Here in the Philippines, volunteerism runs deep in our culture—the ‘bayanihan’. In the Philippine Red Cross, the spirit of volunteerism comes alive through our volunteers who respond first and stay longest—whether in rescue, relief, health promotion, disease prevention, or in providing water, blood, welfare services, psychosocial support, and many more services to affected communities.”

PRC celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 and promotes PRC's Safe Card Program (Photo Courtesy of PRC Communications).

The ceremony continued with messages and reflections from PRC governors and partners. Gov. Ernesto S. Isla, Chairman of the Quezon City Chapter, led the opening prayer, followed by the reading of the Seven Fundamental Principles by Gov. Edward Thomas F. Joson of the Nueva Ecija Chapter. Sanjeev Kumar Kafley, Head of Delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), delivered a special message recognizing the unwavering strength of PRC’s volunteer base. Gov. Elizabeth S. Zavalla, Chairperson of the Volunteer Service Committee, led volunteers in a pledge of commitment, while Gov. Corazon Alma G. De Leon delivered the closing message. Chapter administrators also expressed their chapters’ renewed commitments to humanitarian service for the coming year, stating their target numbers for Safecard and volunteer memberships.

The event likewise strengthened PRC’s visibility and promoted the PRC Safecard Membership Program, a one-year personal accident assistance coverage designed for emergencies, accidents, health crises, and disasters.

At the heart of the celebration were the PRC volunteers themselves—people who are the backbone of the RC 143 system, the lifeblood of community preparedness, and the force behind countless preparedness, response, and recovery operations across the country. Their presence in every barangay ensures that humanitarian service begins at the community level and radiates outward, proving that volunteerism rooted locally can transform lives everywhere. Their dedication reflects the deep Filipino spirit of bayanihan, which continues to strengthen PRC’s humanitarian mission and vision.

This year’s International Volunteer Day reaffirmed the indispensable role of PRC volunteers whose local actions create life-changing impact nationwide—embodying the true essence of being locally everywhere, significantly contributing to the betterment of humanity.

For any emergencies, call the PRC Hotline #143.

SANDOZ PHILIPPINES DONATES P350,000 WORTH OF ESSENTIAL MEDICINES FOR CEBU EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS, SAYS PH RED CROSS “HAS ALWAYS BEEN FIRST ON THE GROUND”

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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. 

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS HOSTS WELCOME DINNER AT NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS FOR THE 2025 NATIONAL MOOT COURT COMPETITION

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MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) welcomed law students, legal experts, and academic leaders to the next round of the 2025 National Moot Court Competition on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with a welcome dinner held on December 1 at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong.

The 2025 National Moot Court Competition on IHL is organized by the Philippine Red Cross in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This year’s quarter-semi final rounds will be hosted by the University of the Philippines (UP), while the competition’s final round and awarding will commence at the Supreme Court of the Philippines.

Following the General Rounds held on November 14, the following Top 8 Universities were invited to participate in the welcome dinner and will advance to the Face-to-Face Quarterfinals to be held at UP Diliman: Ateneo de Zamboanga University; Batangas State University – The National Engineering University; Ateneo de Naga University College of Law; Bukidnon State University; Cor Jesu College Inc; University of the Philippines Diliman; Arellano University School of Law; and Cagayan State University College of Law. 

Along with the contestants, also present were PRC Member of the Board of Governors and Chairperson of PRC IHL Committee, Atty. Rodolfo “Inky” Reyes; Dean of UP College of Law, Atty. Gwen Grecia-De Vera; Associate Professor and Institute of International Studies Director of UP College of Law, Atty. Rommel Casis; ICRC Legal Adviser Atty. Gabriel Calleja; and Program Director of International Financial Law and Regulation Program Institute of International Legal Studies, Atty. Ma. Golda Gigi Mendoza.

PRC Chairman & CEO Richard J. Gordon giving a message to the competitors. (Photo courtesy of PRC Communications Office).

In his inspiring message to the youth, PRC Chairman & CEO Richard J. Gordon recalled the origins of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) with founder Jean Henri Dunant and the importance of IHL, especially in today’s world. He also imparted wise words to the participants of the aforesaid competition.

“Participation in this competition is more than an academic exercise: it is a defining moment. Do not remain spectators. Engage fully, allow yourselves to be influenced, and understand that your influence must extend far beyond intelligence alone. What you will discuss here has the power to shape minds, guide future decisions, and strengthen the humanitarian foundations of our nation,” said Chairman Gordon.

Chairman Gordon has long since advocated for IHL in the country. During his time as a Senator, he authored Republic Act 9851 or the “Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Serious International Crimes,” which was signed into law in 2009. His actions strengthened the enforcement of IHL in the country by incorporating it into the country’s domestic legal framework, defining and penalizing wartime atrocities. 

Meanwhile, PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang underscored the goal of the moot court competition, hoping that the country’s future leaders in law grow rooted in integrity and compassion. 

“In 2005, we started the National Moot Court Competition in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Since then, it has become one of PRC’s flagship academic advocacy initiatives, further strengthened by the University of the Philippines and the Supreme Court of the Philippines. This competition aims to deepen respect for IHL and inspire future leaders that engage in politics with legal awareness while safeguarding human dignity, especially in times of conflict,” said the PRC Secretary General.

As part of the competition guidelines for ethical and fair judging, participating universities remain anonymous and are referred to via team numbers. 

In a short interview with Team 9’s coach, he emphasized what PRC’s IHL-initiatives meant for future members of the legal profession. “Joining the IHL National Moot Court Competition helps our students to breathe and relax—like a vacation from law school. It’s a productive extracurricular activity because they are able to debate and form connections with new people—especially students who are also studying IHL,” said the coach of Team 9.

Also interviewed was Counsel  1 of Team 6 who called for continuous engagement and awareness on IHL. “For us law students, it’s very important to be engaged with this topic. This competition, along with PRC’s humanitarian mission, made us really understand IHL better and have a better grasp on it. While the cases we were presented with were fictional, we cannot deny that these realities are real. It happens, it can happen, and it will always happen unless we have a better grasp of IHL,” said Team 6’s Counsel 1. 

As the competition heads into its final stages, the PRC would like to congratulate everyone who participated and thank them for their support toward learning and advocating for International Humanitarian Law. 

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There.

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS HONORS 314 BLOOD DONORS AND PARTNERS AT THE 3RD CENTRAL LUZON KADUGO AWARDING CEREMONY

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CLARK, PAMPANGA — On Friday, November 28, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) gathered hundreds of blood donors, institutional partners, and community leaders at the Hilton Clark for the 3rd Central Luzon Kadugo Awarding Ceremony, celebrating the individuals and organizations whose sustained support continues to strengthen the region’s life-saving blood services.

A total of 314 awardees from Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Olongapo, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the National Blood Services Program. Through years of consistent participation in blood donation drives and community initiatives, these partners have helped ensure that safe and adequate blood remains available for patients in need across the country.

“No Filipino should lose their life because blood was not available. With the continued dedication of our donors, partners, and volunteers, we move closer to a country where every patient gets the chance to live,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon who commended the honorees for the impact of their service.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang, who attended the program along with PRC’s National Blood Services Director Dr. Monina Nalupta, highlighted the importance of this year’s theme “Give Blood, Give Hope, Together We Save Lives.” 

“For the Philippine Red Cross, this year’s theme is not just a slogan, but a kind of truth we see in our everyday lives. Blood is life, and to donate blood is to give hope. For us in the Red Cross—and for the patients, especially—every bag of blood symbolizes hope because we can give patients a second chance at life. And while the need for blood does not end, through the donations we receive, we give those in need the gift of life,” said the PRC Secretary General.

Awards from the 3rd Central Luzon Kadugo Awarding Ceremony. (Photo Credit: PRC Communications Office)

The ceremony conferred a range of distinctions honoring both the volume of blood units collected and years of partnership, including the Blood Samaritan Award for supporters whose financial assistance enables indigent patients to receive free or subsidized blood; Hall of Fame awards for partners with over ten consecutive years of service and thousands of units collected through mobile blood donation activities; Outstanding Blood Service Partner of the Year citations for institutions that have gathered more than 1,000 units over a decade of continuous partnership; Testimonial Plaques for partners with unique, long-term contributions; Blood Service Platinum Awards for organizations consistently collecting 500 to 999 units over at least five years; Special Awards for exceptional support beyond regular targets; Scrolls of Honor for four consecutive years of service with 200 to 499 units collected; and Diplomas of Service for those who have completed two years of partnership with 100 to 199 units collected.

During his welcome remarks, Gov. Edward Joson, Chairman of Nueva Ecija Chapter and member of PRC Board of Governors shared his personal appreciation to all the partners of the Philippine Red Cross when it comes to blood donation. “When my father, the former Governor of Nueva Ecija, Tomas Joson III needed blood transfusions, platelets, and apheresis for his cancer treatment, we were always able to bring blood. The hematologist would ask us ‘why do we always have blood?’ This is the proof of excellence and beauty of PRC’s blood services program and its blood partners. Even with my father’s blood being an Rh-negative blood type—A-negative—we were still able to provide blood,” said Gov. Joson. 

In an interview with PRC Tarlac Chapter’s (BOD) Finance Officer Luciano Paras Jr., he highlighted the need to recognize the partners and blood donors who help keep the blood supply of the country strong. 

“I am very happy that we have institutionalized the regional Kadugo Awards. Our benefactors and supporters of our mass blood donations are more dedicated because we recognize them on a regional-level and not just the chapter-level. I see our supporters and they are very happy that their efforts are being recognized throughout Central Luzon. Alongside this, we stay true to the vision of our Chairman and Secretary General of providing safe and adequate blood to every person in need,” said Mr. Paras.

Among the Diploma of Service awardees was the Columban College of Nursing, represented by faculty member Raymond Papa and student Francis Solomon, recognized for helping mobilize students and faculty in regular blood donation efforts. Mr. Raymond Papa expressed gratitude for the recognition and recognized the importance of blood donations, saying, “I started donating blood back when I was 18 years old and I think it’s important that we start teaching our youth to donate blood and start as early as they can. In Columban College of Nursing, our students initiate the blood drives and are helping the community address the shortage of blood supply in the country. Since we started our partnership with the PRC and began our blood drives two years ago, our students have been really looking forward to organizing events and donating blood.”

Now in its third year, the Kadugo Awarding Ceremony drew an estimated 450 to 500 attendees, reflecting the growing engagement of communities in volunteer blood donation across Central Luzon and the steady expansion of partnerships that sustain the program.

The Philippine Red Cross congratulates the awardees of the 3rd Central Luzon Kadugo Awarding Ceremony.

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There. For any emergencies, please contact our PRC Hotline #143.

 

DISCOVERY HOSPITALITY CORPORATION: “PH RED CROSS IS KNOWN FOR ITS FOUR PILLARS OF TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY;” DONATES FOR FAMILIES AFFECTED BY CEBU AND DAVAO EARTHQUAKE

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MANDALUYONG, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) welcomed representatives from Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) on 14 November 2025 as the group turned over their donation to help families recovering from the recent Cebu and Davao earthquake. 

The DHC team was led by Blessy Townes, Vice President & Head of Digital Marketing and Branding, together with Lynette Ermac, Senior Vice President of Sales and Operations. They were joined by several senior leaders and representatives from Discovery’s hotels and resorts, including colleagues from Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, Discovery Primea, and Discovery Suites who all took part in the visit.

The team was received at the PRC – National Headquarters Tower by the organization’s Finance Director Rayadh Manalad, who thanked them on behalf of Chairman Richard J. Gordon and the PRC volunteers working on the ground.

DHC’s donation was the result of a groupwide fundraising initiative led by Jose Parreño Jr., President of Discovery World Corporation and Chief Operating Officer of DHC, carried out across its portfolio of hotels and resorts.

After the turnover, PRC colleagues brought the group inside the Operations Center (OpCen) where responders monitor emergencies 24/7, coordinate teams for mobilization, and send assets wherever they are needed most. Through a tour of PRC’s OpCen, the delegation saw firsthand how every donation is translated into blankets, hot meals, medical care, and essential support for people who have lost so much during manmade incidents and natural disasters.

Representatives from Discovery Hospitality Corporation were given a tour of PRC's Operation Center. (Photo Courtesy: PRC Communications Office)

In a short interview, Ermac and Townes explained why DHC chose to help the affected communities through the PRC.

“The Philippine Red Cross is known for its core pillars of trust and transparency, which we very much believe in. So, we wanted to make sure that the donations from our properties—especially of our guests—will be coursed through an organization that operates with accountability,” said Townes.

In a message to the DHC team, PRC Chairman & CEO Richard Gordon said, “When disaster strikes, people look for a hand they can hold on to. We are grateful that Discovery Hospitality chose to be that hand for the families in Cebu and Davao. Your act of solidarity helps us reach more people, faster, and reminds communities that they are not alone.”

The Philippine Red Cross continues to support families affected by the earthquake through relief distributions, health services, and ongoing assessments in hard-hit areas. PRC expressed its appreciation to Discovery Hospitality for standing with the organization at a time when compassion makes the greatest difference.

Since the earthquakes struck, PRC teams have been on the ground providing humanitarian assistance to hundreds of families. The organization continues to call for solidarity and support to sustain recovery efforts. 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. 

PH RED CROSS MOURNS THE PASSING OF GOV. ROSA ROSAL

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TAGUIG, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) deeply mourns the passing of beloved actress, humanitarian, and long-serving PRC leader Gov. Rosa Rosal, who died at the age of 97 on 15 November 2025. 

From 17 to 19 November, a memorial reception was held at the Heritage Memorial Park in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig, to honor her life and legacy. On the evening of 19 November, family, friends, and colleagues of Gov. Rosa Rosal in the humanitarian community attended her Necrological Services. 

 

“We live in a world that is no longer harmonious to some, because we have forgotten the meaning of service and of giving. I always tell the Philippine Red Cross ‘you cannot be a spectator.’ You have to move forward. Acta non verba. Actions, not words—this is what defined Rosa Rosal. Whatever she set her heart on, she pursued. When she saw that the country needed blood, she went ahead and got blood. She expanded her world with courage to the point where she saw the suffering of others—then, she reached out to them. The Philippine Red Cross exists to reach out for the vulnerable, and Rosa Rosal was the very embodiment of that mission,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon.

“On behalf of the Philippine Red Cross, we extend our deepest condolences. We share your grief, and we stand with you in honoring a life that touched so many. Gov. Rosa Rosal—Tita Rose—served the organization for 75 years. She volunteered for 21 years and spent 54 years on the Board of Governors. She embodied love, grace, and humanity. She will forever live in the hearts of everyone who makes up the PRC,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

PRC Chairman & CEO Dick Gordon dedicated a eulogy to Gov. Rosa Rosal. (Photo Courtesy: PRC Communications Office)

Gov. Rosa Rosal was remembered not only as a celebrated icon of Philippine cinema but also as one of the country’s most enduring humanitarians. Over the decades, she championed blood donation nationwide, launching PRC initiatives that brought bloodletting drives to campuses, military camps, and communities. She also founded a women’s crisis center to support unwed and vulnerable pregnant mothers, and helped find homes for children who had been abandoned or left without care.

Balancing her public life with her service, she hosted the television programs Damayan and Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko, both aimed at mobilizing financial and medical assistance for indigent patients. She further used proceeds from international speaking engagements to acquire Red Cross equipment, provide scholarships, and support livelihood recovery in disaster-stricken areas.

Presentation of Resolution Honoring the Life, Legacy, and Exemplary Humanitarian Service of Gov. Rosa Rosal. (Photo Courtesy: PRC Communications Office)

For more than seven decades, Gov. Rosa Rosal helped shape the Philippine Red Cross into the humanitarian institution it is today. To our “Rose of Humanity,” thank you for dedicating your life to compassion and service. We will never forget you.

Gov. Rosa Rosal’s inurnment ceremony was held on the morning of 20 November 2025 at the Heritage Memorial Park in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig.

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS JOINS BOMBO RADYO PHILIPPINES IN BIGGEST ONE-DAY BLOODLETTING DRIVE “DUGONG BOMBO 2025: A LITTLE PAIN, A LIFE TO GAIN”

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The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) proudly partnered once again with Bombo Radyo Philippines and Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc. for Dugong Bombo 2025: A Little Pain, A Life to Gain, the largest single-day bloodletting activity in the country. The nationwide event was held on November 15, 2025 (Saturday) across 25 major locations, supported by 32 fully digitalized AM and FM stations.

An annual event widely recognized as the country’s biggest one-day voluntary bloodletting initiative, Dugong Bombo demonstrated the power of collective action with a humanitarian purpose. In past runs, the efforts of Bombo Radyo Philippines, Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc. and everyone who supported the event helped replenish the national blood supply by collecting around 2.1 million cc of blood—equivalent to 2,081 liters, 550 gallons, or 10 drums of lifesaving blood.

Despite the recent earthquakes and typhoons, Dugong Bombo 2025 achieved a new record in blood collection. By the end of the event, a total of 4,657 bags of blood had been gathered—equivalent to approximately 2.1 million cc of blood, 2,095.65 liters, 553.61 gallons, or 10 full drums of lifesaving blood.

A bag of blood collected during Dugong Bombo 2025 at Robinson's Galleria Ortigas. (Photo Courtesy: PRC Communications Office)

In a short interview with Dugong Bombo 2025 host Rizelle Ann Escano—more popularly known as Star DJ Gaby of 102.7 Star FM—she mentioned how partnerships with different organizations like the Philippine Red Cross makes events like Dugong Bombo 2025 impactful within the community.

“Here at Dugong Bombo, different groups and organizations come together for a single cause. With other blood donation projects, there’s usually only focus on either one or two groups and it’s only organized by one organization. But for Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, Inc. we invited a lot of groups like Rotary, Tau Gamma, PNP, BFP, even the AFP. While the groups involved are really different, they all have one goal: to help save lives—and that’s being done here at Dugong Bombo 2025,” said Star DJ Gaby.

PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon acknowledged the longstanding partnership between PRC and Bombo Radyo Philippines Foundation, noting how the project strengthens the nation’s blood supply chain. “Every bag of blood collected is a lifeline for someone in need. Dugong Bombo shows what everyone is capable of achieving when media, volunteers, and communities unite for humanitarian service.”

During the event, PRC’s National Blood Services teams were mobilized to ensure safe and efficient screening, collection, and processing of donated blood in all participating sites. 

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need. For any emergencies, you may call the PRC Hotline #143.

If you’re interested in making a donation, visit our website: https://redcross.org.ph/ways-to-donate/ 

OCEAN NETWORK EXPRESS PHILIPPINES DONATES TO THE PHILIPPINE RED CROSS FOR EARTHQUAKE-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN CEBU AND DAVAO

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MANDALUYONG, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has received a donation from Ocean Network Express (ONE) Philippines, Inc. to support relief and recovery efforts for families affected by the recent earthquakes in Cebu and Davao.

In a simple turnover ceremony held at the PRC Tower on November 5, representatives from ONE Philippines, Ms. Yolanda Torres, Human Resources Manager, and Mr. Kyrus Galdo Macul, Corporate & Innovation Specialist, personally handed the donation to PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang. They were also given a tour of PRC’s Operation Center (OpCen) where they saw PRC staff and volunteers at work.

Ocean Network Express PH representatives after a tour of PRC's Operation Center. (Photo courtesy of PRC Communications).

“ONE Philippines’ contribution will help provide essential humanitarian aid such as food, clean water, shelter materials, and psychosocial support to the affected families in Cebu and Davao,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon. 

“Thank you ONE Philippines for your generosity and for putting your trust in the Philippine Red Cross,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang. 

“ONE is pleased to support the humanitarian efforts led by the Philippine Red Cross. Their proven track record and commitment to transparency are essential to ensuring aid reaches local communities swiftly and effectively in times of need,” said a spokesperson from ONE Philippines. 

The Philippine Red Cross would like to thank Ocean Network Express Philippines for joining the PRC’s mission to alleviate human suffering and uplift the lives of those impacted by disasters.

The PRC continues to call on individuals and organizations to extend their support, ensuring that no Filipino faces disaster alone. The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need. 

For any emergencies, you may call the PRC Hotline #143.

If you’re interested in making a donation, visit our website: https://redcross.org.ph/ways-to-donate/ 

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS ASSISTS A TOTAL OF 402 INDIVIDUALS IN ‘RALLY FOR TRANSPARENCY AND A BETTER DEMOCRACY’

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MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has mobilized its teams across Metro Manila to support the Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on November 16-17 at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila and the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City.

Ahead of the gathering, the PRC placed all ambulance units in the National Capital Region (NCR) on high alert and set up multiple first aid stations and welfare desks to help ensure that participants could take part in the event safely. 

A total of nine (9) ambulance units, six (6) first aid stations, two (2) welfare desks, and forty seven (47) staff and volunteers were deployed across both venues on November 16-17. 

Throughout the rally, PRC staff and volunteers worked across both sites under warm conditions and steadily growing crowds. By 10:00PM of November 17, PH Red Cross teams had already assisted 402 individuals. Most sought help for vital signs monitoring, dizziness, headaches, abdominal discomfort, and other minor ailments commonly seen in large public events. During the event, a total of four (4) major cases were reported, with people experiencing severe dizziness or lacerations. Four (4) individuals were also transported to medical posts or hospitals for cases such as shortness of breath, severe chest pain, inguinal pain, and an avulsion at the head.

At the Quirino Grandstand, the crowd swelled to an estimated 550,000 by the late evening of November 17. PRC responders operated four (4) first aid stations and four (4) ambulance units. Eighteen (18) responders from the Manila, Pasay, and NHQ-Port teams worked continuously to support the flow of people entering and leaving the grounds. By 10:00PM of the same day, they assisted a total of 242 individuals, most of whom presented with minor concerns or needing vital signs checks.

In Quezon City, an estimated 4,200 individuals showed up near the EDSA Shrine by the evening of November 17. At the height of the rally, PRC teams from Quezon City Chapter, NHQ Tower, and Rizal – San Juan staffed two (2) first aid stations and two (2) welfare desks, supported by five (5) ambulances on standby. They assisted a total of 160 people including seven with minor cases and three major cases.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon praised the commitment of the responders on the ground, noting that their work reflects the organization’s mandate to protect health and uphold humanitarian needs in crowded, high-risk environments. “Our Red Cross volunteers and staff are there to make sure people are safe, cared for, and are treated with humanity. We will continue to provide support to the people in need for as long as needed,” said Chairman Gordon. 

The Philippine Red Cross remains committed to being Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for the people in need. For any emergencies, call the PRC Hotline #143.

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
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