Philippine Red Cross

PH RED CROSS ALERTS THE PUBLIC AGAINST HEAT-RELATED EMERGENCIES AMID RISING HEAT INDICES

Written on March 5, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) warns the public against heat-related emergencies such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which are very common with high heat indices.

According to the PRC, heat-related emergencies are heat-induced emergencies that can happen when prolonged exposure to high temperatures affects the body’s natural temperature control system. When the body cannot effectively dissipate the excessive heat, its temperature rises, leading to an emergency.

The PRC stated that children, persons with disabilities (PWDs), elderlies, and outside workers are among the most at high risk of heat-related emergencies. Hence, several local government units in the country announced class suspensions on March 3 and 4 following warnings from the state bureau PAGASA of areas under ‘danger’ classification with temperatures ranging from 45°C to 46°C.

PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon shared simple tips on how to stay safe and protected.

“There are three simple things to remember to protect yourself and your loved ones against heat-related emergencies, specifically heat stroke: first is to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks, second is to stay in well-ventilated areas, and third is to wear lightweight and light-colored clothing. I also advise the public to stay indoors unless extremely necessary,” Gordon said.

The PRC announced that the symptoms of heat stroke are the absence of sweating; red, hot, dry, and flushed skin; confusion, and disorientation. Moreover, the symptoms of heat exhaustion are heavy sweating, paleness, dizziness, vomiting, fainting, and moist skin.

Meanwhile, PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang reiterated that the public may call the PRC Hotline 143 which is accessible 24/7 for those who might experience symptoms of heat-related emergencies.

“If someone experiences symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, move the patient to a cooler area, spray water on the skin, immerse the patient in cool water (for heat stroke), have the patient drink an Oral Rehydration Solution (for heat exhaustion), and call the PRC’s 24/7 hotline at 143 for immediate assistance,” Dr. Pang added.

PRC offers 24/7 ambulance services, with its 178 ambulance units strategically positioned nationwide.

BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY: PH RED CROSS, ARMY SIGNAL REGIMENT UNITE TO STRENGTHEN BLOOD DONATION CAUSE

Written on February 19, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City—Amid the high demand for blood due to the rising cases of dengue in the country, a memorandum of undertaking that intensifies the partnership on blood donation campaign between the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Army Signal Regiment (ASR) of the Philippine Army was signed on February 18, 2025, at the ASR Headquarters in Taguig City.

The agreement states that the PRC and ASR shall conduct a regular blood donation activity to ensure continuous and ready availability of blood.

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang pointed out the importance of the partnership to contribute to the nation’s blood requirement.

“Sa ating bansa, ang pangangailangan natin ng dugo ay nasa 1.2 million bags of blood annually. Ang PRC ay nakakalikom ng more than 500,000 bags of blood, ang remaining amount of blood ay galing sa iba’t ibang private and government organizations. As a single organization, tayo po ang may pinakamalaking ambag. Nag-invest po talaga ang Red Cross ng 108 blood service facilities all over the country, para kahit saan ka man magpunta ay may access ang tao sa dugo,” Dr. Pang said.

“Hindi lamang po ito isang pormal na kasunduan, ito po ay isang panata na patuloy nating gagampanan ang ating mga tungkulin hindi lang sa pagtatanggol sa ating bayan, kundi pati na rin sa pagsagip ng buhay sa pamamagitan ng blood donation,” Dr. Pang added.

“This MOU is not just a document but a testament to our shared commitment to service that extends beyond our sworn duty to protect our nation, reaching the very core of humanitarian assistance—sharing our precious blood so that others may live. Salamat sa inyo dahil maraming pagkakataon na nabigyan ng dugo ang sugatan namin mga kasama sa field. As we sign this agreement, let this be the start of a strengthened partnership. Together, we ensure that no call for help is left unanswered and no life is lost due to lack of resources,” Brig. Gen. Jamel Samonte PA stressed.

336 blood units have been collected since the partnership between the PRC and ASR began in 2021.

The next nationwide bloodletting activity of PRC and ASR will take place on March 7 this year.

PH Red Cross Intensifies B.E.A.T. Dengue Campaign Amid Nationwide Surge in Cases

Written on February 19, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

Responding quickly to the rising number of dengue cases in the country, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) intensifies its “B.E.A.T. Dengue Campaign” under the leadership of PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon, the B.E.A.T. Dengue Campaign is a nationwide dengue outbreak prevention and response plan that started in 2024.

“B.E.A.T.” stands for Break breeding sites by mobilizing Red Cross 143 volunteers to help mobilize communities for dengue prevention and response activities; Educate the community through the dissemination of dengue-related communication materials; Assist dengue patients and hospitals by providing ambulances, blood, welfare desks, and medical tents; and Trace dengue hotspot areas through PRC’s 102 chapters across the country.

“We don’t just provide blood for dengue patients, the ongoing beat dengue campaign around the country mobilizes communities to work together in dengue prevention and response. The dengue cases are still rising and according to the DOH, we are expecting more areas to declare dengue outbreaks. Mahalaga na handa tayo at alam natin ang gagawin para maiwasan ang pagdami pa ng kaso ng pagkakasakit. Alam natin na delikado ang dengue at maaaring makamatay. Huwag na nating iasa sa iba ang paglilinis ng kapaligiran, tayo na mismo ang kumilos para sa ating kaligtasan. Magtulungan po tayong lahat para magligtas ng buhay,” said Chairman Gordon.

According to PRC Health Services, 15 PRC Chapters have already conducted community-level dengue prevention activities such as distribution of information materials and clean-up drives in 24 key communities in Quezon City, Caloocan, Marikina, Kalinga, Bataan, Tarlac, Mountain Province, Bulacan, Abra, Cebu, Iligan, Misamis Oriental, General Santos City, Surigao Norte, and Agusan Sur; this mobilization has reached over 3,000 individuals.

“Prevention is better than cure. We don’t wait to be infected before we act. The PRC is continuously educating the public about dengue prevention, but if a dengue patient needs blood, we have a robust blood supply,” PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang added.

From January to mid-February of 2025, the PRC dispensed 1,078 blood units for dengue cases, a 106% increase from 524 blood units in 2024. The public may call the PRC hotline 1158 for dengue-related concerns.

PH RECEIVES BLOODMOBILE TRUCK FROM FOTON, REINFORCING BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN

Written on February 4, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES—The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Quezon City Chapter acquired a brand-new bloodmobile truck from Foton Motors Philippines Inc. on February 3, intensifying the capacity of the PRC QC Chapter in blood collection to help more vulnerable people in need of blood transfusion to live.

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang, on behalf of PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon, mentioned, “On behalf of the PRC family, we would like to thank Foton Motors Philippines Inc. for this top-class bloodmobile truck. This will allow us to bring lifesaving blood donation services closer to communities and people, ensuring a steady supply of safe blood for patients who need it most.”

In addition to the donated bloodmobile truck from Foton, a blood laboratory from SM Foundation Inc., a water outboard motor from the PRC QC Chapter Dir. Johnny Yu, and 15 sets of firefighter suits courtesy of the PRC Board of Directors were also turned over.

“We also express our deep appreciation to SM Foundation for their generous donation to converting our warehouse to a blood laboratory. This facility will enhance our capacity to process, test, and store blood efficiently; ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality, to Dir. Johnny Yu, your donation of water outboard will greatly strengthen our emergency response, especially during floods. And to our PRC QC Chapter Board of Directors for donating 15 sets of firefighter suits which will enhance the safety and effectiveness of our firefighter volunteers in responding to fire. Each donation is a testament to the power of collaboration and unwavering humanitarian spirit that drives the PRC,” Dr. Pang added.

Representative of Foton Philippines President Rommel Sytin, Kenneth Sytin said, “This donation of a mobile truck is our way of supporting critical missions, ensuring that blood is available in times of emergencies. We share the Red Cross’ commitment to saving lives in a timely and efficient manner.”

Representative of SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs and PRC QC Chapter Board of Director Connie Angeles, Albert Uy cited, “The transformation of this warehouse into a blood laboratory is not just a renovation, but a testament to our shared commitment to health, wellness, and wellbeing of our community.”

Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Council for Fire Volunteer Organizations of the Philippines and PRC QC Chapter Board of Director Johnny Yu remarked, “The PRC has always been a beacon of hope and inspiration. Our collective efforts have touched countless lives—transformed communities and created lasting change. We are a driving force in fighting diseases, providing blood services, supporting education and training, and disaster resiliency. With this, we would continue to support the PRC in whatever manner we can.”

In 2024, the PRC collected 588,575 blood units; dispensed 608,484 blood bags; and served 301,852 patients.

GORDON: PH RED CROSS’ 38TH FOOD TRUCK ON THE WAY, MORE ADVANCED AND COMPLETE

Written on February 1, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

MANDALUYONG, PHILIPPINES—Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman & CEO Richard “Dick” Gordon announced that the PRC just purchased a new food truck which is more advanced, an addition to its existing 37 food trucks used to provide immediate food supply for vulnerable people in evacuation centers during disasters and emergencies.

According to the PRC, the newly procured food truck (Hyundai HD78 GT 14ft Food Truck with 1 Ton Tailgate Lifter) has an air conditioning system and a refrigerator that helps in maintaining the freshness and quality of food especially if it needs to be brought to far-flung areas; it also has three solar panels. It is expected to come in February and will be positioned at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong.

PRC Chairman and the author of Food Donation Law (RA 9803), Dick Gordon stated that “The PRC is expanding and innovating. We are not only addressing hunger, but we’re giving people dignity by serving them decent and healthy meals. And we’re planning to add more food trucks in the future.”

“In times of catastrophes, food is highly essential. When you’re in an evacuation center, you cannot cook because you don’t have what you need. By serving them ready-to-eat meals, we’re alleviating the suffering of our kababayans because they don’t have to worry about it anymore. Maliit na bagay pero makabuluhan,” Chairman Gordon added.

The first four PRC food trucks were donated by Gordon in 2005 to combat malnutrition in various schools in Metro Manila. These were positioned in the PRC chapters in Pasay, NHQ-Mandaluyong, Quezon City, and Manila.

Currently, the PRC owns 37 donated food trucks prepositioned across its 102 chapters nationwide, ready to be deployed as needed. The PRC food trucks can feed a hundred individuals per hour and are equipped with industrial-size burners, steamers, and other cooking equipment. Additionally, the PRC mentioned that all ingredients for its Hot Meals on Wheels program are locally sourced to support local farmers and fisherfolk.

Meanwhile, PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang mentioned “The PRC is also mobilizing professionally trained volunteer chefs and nutritionists to ensure safety and dignified hot meal preparations to vulnerable communities.”

From 2005 to January 2025, the PRC’s Hot Meals on Wheels program served 1.7 million hot meals from its numerous operations.

PRODUCING REAL-LIFE HEROES: PH RED CROSS, ELIZABETH SETON SCHOOL LAUNCH 11TH DUGTONG BUHAY BLOODLETTING DRIVE

Written on February 1, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

LAS PIÑAS, PHILIPPINES—Following the Philippine Red Cross’ (PRC) call for continuous collaboration to ensure the nation’s stable blood supply, the PRC and Elizabeth Seton School kick off the 11th Dugtong Buhay bloodletting drive on January 31, 2025.

In a statement, PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon expressed gratitude to the academic institution as well as to the blood donors for their selfless contribution to this noble cause.

“Your Philippine Red Cross remains the major blood supplier in the country; we were able to maintain this status because of every blood donor and advocate like you. On behalf of the PRC, we would like to thank the entire administration of the Elizabeth Seton School for your tireless efforts to promote the importance of blood donation. You are not just producing excellent learners but real-life heroes,” Gordon said.

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang, who served as guest of honor, inspired the students and school personnel by saying “The Dugtong Buhay blood donation drive began in October 1995, thanks to the efforts of Dr. Josefina Suarez and Governor Rosa Rosal. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our previous blood drives brought in 4,000 to 6,000 bags annually, with each campus in Las Piñas and Cavite contributing 1,000 to 1,500 bags. Dugtong Buhay has achieved one of the largest single blood donations ever recorded to the PRC.”

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Seton School President Dr. Roberto “Bob” Borromeo mentioned “It’s an opportunity for members of the community—our learners and faculty to live out our values of faith, love, and selfless service. We would like our learners to recognize the value of donating blood; they’re not only here to learn but to serve and make a difference. I’d like to commend PRC for this very noble task and we hope that you continue to make a difference in the lives of others.”

“It is our way to showcase what selfless service means and especially love for others. We’ve been partnering with the PRC for the past 30 years and we’re grateful for this noble mission to save lives. With the help of PRC, we know that we will be able to generate more blood donors,” added Catherin “Kay” Ann Rosero, School Academic Director and Dugtong Buhay 11 Chairperson.

Also present at the event were Elizabeth Seton School Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Josefina Suarez, Dr. Rached Caranzo, and PRC National Blood Services Director and Assistant Secretary-General for Programs Development & Services Dr. Christie Monina Nalupta.

Dugtong Buhay is an institutional effort that aims to save lives by advocating blood donation. The actual bloodletting activity is open to the public on May 2 and 3 at Elizabeth Seton School – Las Piñas Campus.

Phil Red Cross gears up for Cebu’s Sinulog Festival 2025

Written on January 26, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES—After its successful ‘Traslacion’ operations, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) led by Chairman & CEO Richard “Dick” Gordon has been mobilizing its assets to another highly anticipated event, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu in honor of Señor Sto. Niño.

Chairman Gordon assured the public that the PRC’s presence will be felt until the end of the month-long festival.

“Prior to the Sinulog, our staff and volunteers were already deployed. Our Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams will remain on standby to provide medical attention to millions of local and international tourists expected to join the festival. All of our assets are activated and we’re ready to serve,” Gordon said.

The PRC mobilized 200 volunteers, six ambulance units, two rescue boats, four service vehicles, and a food truck.

It also set up 22 first aid stations, welfare desks, water stations, a communication center, and an Emergency Field Hospital (EFH) with ten beds.

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang reminded the public to take note of some safety measures in order to have a safe and solemn celebration.

“It’s very important to stay hydrated, bring snacks, and wear comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear. If you have a medical condition, it’s highly recommended that you bring your medical identification tag in case of an emergency. The public may also call the Red Cross by dialing 143 for assistance,” Dr. Pang stated.

The operations of the PRC started on January 9 during the Novena Mass and Walk with Jesus. It will continue its operations for upcoming festival activities such as Walk with Mary, Fluvial Parade, Solemn Procession, and the Sinulog Grand Parade on January 19.

‘Phil Red Cross continues to deliver life-saving aid as Kanlaon shows ongoing volcanic unrest

Written on January 6, 2025. Posted in News and Events.

NEGROS ISLAND, PHILIPPINES—The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) continues to bring various humanitarian assistance to over a thousand affected individuals after Kanlaon Volcano had seven ash emissions and 28 volcanic earthquakes on New Year’s Day reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

According to the latest bulletin of PHIVOLCS (January 3, 12 a.m.), Kanlaon showed five ash emission events lasted from five to 116 minutes long, while 27 volcanic earthquakes including nine volcanic tremors lasted from 14 to 142 minutes. PHIVOLCS said the ash emissions generated 300-meter-high voluminous plumes and produced 4,861 metric tons of sulfur dioxide. The volcano remained under Alert Level 3 which indicates a high level of volcanic unrest.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard “Dick” Gordon mentioned that “PRC is fully prepared as Kanlaon Volcano continues to show signs of increased activity. The PRC emergency response units, disaster management teams,WASH, health and welfare teams are now on the ground; ready to provide immediate relief, food, water, psychosocial support, medical assistance, and all necessary support to affected communities.”

Meanwhile, PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang urged the public to stay vigilant to ensure safety. She also thanked all the Red Cross staff and volunteers for their commitment to service even during the holiday season.

As of January 3, the PRC was able to deliver the following aid to vulnerable communities in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental: hot meals to 24,611 individuals; bread to 3,655 individuals; child-friendly space to 1,595 children; psychological first aid to 264 people; health consultations to 625 patients; health promotion sessions to 908 persons; and vital signs monitoring and treatment to 172 patients.

It supplied 1,338,500 liters of water and hygiene promotion sessions to 727 people.

The PRC also deployed three water tankers, four ambulances, four food trucks, and a payloader; it set up 26 first aid stations and 25 welfare desks.

Additionally, face masks, bottled water and IEC materials on health were also given.

The country’s foremost humanitarian organization has been at the forefront of the disaster situation which started last year after it erupted twice on June 3 and December 9.

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

Written on December 3, 2024. Posted in News and Events.

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 EXTENDS HELP TO OVER 7K PEPITO-AFFECTED PEOPLE AMID SUCCESSIVE TYPHOON OPERATIONS

Written on November 19, 2024. Posted in News and Events.

MANDALUYONG. Philippines—In the middle of its ongoing humanitarian action for vulnerable communities affected by Tropical cyclones Kristine (Trami), Leon (Kong-Rey), Marce (Yinxing), Nika (Toraji), and Ofel (Usagi), the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) extended aid to 7,040 individuals afflicted by the wrath of Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-Yi).

When Super Typhoon Pepito made its landfall on November 16, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon immediately mobilized PRC staff and Red Cross 143 volunteers in several areas and provinces in the country.

According to the PRC Operations Center as of November 18, the PRC provided 7,040 hot meals and 431 food donations to the affected people; psychological first aid to 5,986 citizens; hygiene promotion sessions to 120 evacuees; and child-friendly space to 56 children, among others.

The PRC also distributed 20,000 liters of clean water, medicines, vitamins, and shelter-strengthening kits. PRC’s rescue vehicles were strategically prepositioned while welfare desks, health desks, and first aid stations were also set up in various locations.

“Pepito is the 16th tropical storm this year and the sixth typhoon in less than a month that hit our country. We activated our response and relief teams to assist affected communities by this super typhoon while our responses for the other five typhoons are underway. It’s not easy, but the Red Cross makes it possible,” Chairman Gordon stated.

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang assured the public that the Red Cross will continue its operations, ensuring that people have access to basic necessities like food and clean water while they’re facing the aftermath of the series of cyclones.

As of November 17, the PRC served 102,172 individuals affected by Typhoons Kristine and Leon; 3,568 people affected by Typhoon Marce; and a total of 8,682 citizens affected by Typhoons Nika and Ofel.

The PRC’s various humanitarian assistances were delivered to priority areas of Quezon, Batangas, Masbate, Apayao, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, and Sorsogon.

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