Philippine Red Cross

Tropical Storm Florita Developments being monitored: Philippine Red Cross ready to respond

Written on August 23, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon alerted its volunteers and staff and prepared its assets as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that a low pressure area is now a tropical depression with its local name Florita on Sunday, August 21.

“Bago pa man pumasok ang tag-ulan ngayong taon, handa na ang Red Cross na magbigay tulong sa ating mga kababayan. Bilang katuwang ng pamahalaan, laging maaasahan ang serbisyong hatid ng Red Cross. Katuwang natin ang ating mga volunteer at staff na walang takot na magbigay ng tulong sa gitna ng mga posibleng panganib dulot ng bagyo,” Chairman Gordon said.

Under the weather conditions stated in its bulletin issued at 5 am today, August 22, the state weather bureau also reported that scattered to widespread flooding and rain-induced landslides are expected, especially in areas that are highly or very highly susceptible to these hazards.

With this report, the PRC advises the public to follow the organization’s 4Ps: Predict, Plan, Prepare, and Practice. Upholding its mantra “Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = a Red Cross that is Always First, Always Ready, Always There,” the PRC, under the leadership of Chairman Gordon, has maintained its modern operations with assets delivering quick services to emergency situations arising due to hazards.

PRC chapters with situational reports in Apayao, Abra, Ilocos Norte, Quirino, and Southern Leyte have alerted RCAT/RC 143 volunteers to monitor their areas and prepare rescue equipment. Volunteers and staff are on standby for any untoward incidents caused by heavy rainfall.

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

World Humanitarian Day 2022: PH Red Cross encourages more volunteers to build a village of heroes

Written on August 19, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

With this year’s theme “It Takes a Village,” the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) celebrates World Humanitarian Day, today, August 19.

As the foremost humanitarian organization in the country, the PRC provides six major services: Blood Services, Disaster Management Services, Safety Services, Health Services, Social Services, Red Cross Youth, and Volunteer Services. PRC volunteers continue to inspire more communities as they share their resources, time, and efforts to build bigger and stronger villages of humanitarian workers to alleviate human suffering.

“Sa pagdiriwang natin ng World Humanitarian Day, taos-puso kong pinasasalamatan ang lahat ng ating mga volunteer, staff, at donor na mula sa iba’t ibang larangan at sektor ng lipunan at nagkakaisa upang maisakatuparan ang layunin ng Red Cross,” Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon said.

The PRC, through its Red Cross 143, promotes a culture of self-help in the communities by developing a network of volunteers trained to predict potential risk, plan, prepare, and practice for effective community-based disaster risk reduction.

Chairman Gordon also encourages all Filipinos to take part in the heroism of the PRC by efficiently delivering humanitarian services as this act saves lives of the vulnerable individuals.

To become a PRC volunteer, contact the Volunteer Service Office at 7902300 local 945 or send an email at [email protected].

As Covid cases rise anew, Gordon encourages public to get tested to prevent undetected transmission of the virus

Written on August 16, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

Mandaluyong City — As the country sees an increasing number of new cases of Covid-19, Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon encourages the public to get tested to prevent the undetected transmission of the virus. The Department of Health Covid-19 tracker shows an increasing number of new cases added daily, based on a 7-day moving average.

“With the alarming increase in positivity rates in the past weeks, and as we see more and more of our friends and family developing symptoms, we at the PRC encourage everyone to get tested to ensure that we and our loved ones are safe from Covid,” Chairman Gordon said.

At the onset of the pandemic, in 2020, the PRC was the first to set up a molecular laboratory in the country that is capable of conducting automated RT-PCR tests to detect Covid-19. The PRC’s first molecular laboratory started operations in April 2020, one month after former President Duterte declared a community quarantine in the National Capital Region. The setting up of molecular laboratories was the PRC’s response to the need for “unmasking the enemy,” or revealing infections, so that persons infected could be isolated and not infect others.

As of August 14, 2022, the PRC has completed more than 5.6 million swab and saliva RT-PCR tests in the country. Go to https://tinyurl.com/2wwvnz2j to book an RT-PCR test. The PRC molecular laboratories offer discounts to senior citizens and persons with disability.

PH Red Cross and Jungkook fan group hold bloodletting activity to celebrate idol’s birthday

Written on August 16, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Korean pop star Jeon Jungkook’s fan group BFM Kookiebunnies held a bloodletting activity last Saturday, August 13, at the PRC National Blood Center, in Mandaluyong City, to celebrate their idol’s upcoming birthday on September 1. Jungkook is the youngest member of the global entertainment phenomenon BTS, a South Korean boy band composed of seven members, who individually have a claim to stardom. The bloodletting activity drew Jungkook fans, resulting in 66 units of blood collected.

Voluntary blood donation is a regular activity of the Philippine Red Cross as part of its commitment to save lives. “One of the ways to save lives is to provide blood to someone who needs it. We greatly appreciate the individuals and groups that partner with us in this noble endeavor,” PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon said.

From January 1 to August 14, 2022, the PRC has served 144,410 patients needing blood products in its 102 blood service facilities nationwide. For blood donations, blood requests, and other inquiries, email the PRC National Blood Services at [email protected] or contact the PRC Blood Call Center, which may be reached nationwide by dialing 143.

Ilocos Sur Governor Singson expresses gratitude for PH Red Cross’s earthquake response in Ilocos Sur

Written on August 12, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

In the wake of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Northern Luzon on July 27, Ilocos Sur Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson expressed his “sincerest appreciation” for Philippine Red Cross’s (PRC) response operations in the province.

In a letter to PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon dated August 2, Gov. Singson, on behalf of the provincial government and his constituents, called the PRC’s humanitarian aid an “unselfish gesture.” He affirmed that the hot meals provided through PRC’s Hot Meals on Wheels, water distributed through PRC’s water tankers and water storage bladders, sleeping kits, hygiene kits, and tents alleviated the situation of those most severely affected by the major earthquake.

Gov. Singson added that the province is “humbled” to have the PRC in its support system “in these challenging times.” He assured Gordon that the PRC’s “acts of kindness largely benefited the people of Ilocos Sur” and “have provided great support” to the provincial government’s existing programs.

Gov. Singson concluded his letter by expressing gratitude to PRC on behalf of his constituents for “making a difference in the lives of our kakailian [kababayan in Ilocano].”

PH Red Cross intensifies water distribution in earthquake-hit Abra, Ilocos Sur over the weekend

Written on August 11, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) intensified its water distribution and hygiene promotion in communities with limited to no supply of clean water in earthquake-hit Abra and Ilocos Sur over the weekend.

“Walang humpay ang pagtulong ng ating mga volunteers at staff sa Red Cross upang maihatid lamang ang malinis na tubig na pangunahing pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan na tinamaan ng magnitude 7.0 na lindol at aftershocks nito,” PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon said.

Last Saturday, August 6, a PRC water tanker distributed 19,000 liters of water in Santa, Ilocos Sur: 10,000 liters to 101 families, or 303 individuals, in Brgy. Calongbuyan, 4,000 liters to 42 families, or 204 individuals, in Brgy. Rancho, and 5,000 liters to 61 families, or 302 individuals, in Brgy. Casiber.

Simultaneously, another PRC water tanker distributed 18,000 liters of water in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur: 3,000 to 34 families, or 172 individuals, in Brgy. Pandayan and 15,000 to 149 families, or 592 individuals in Brgy. Villamar. Meanwhile, another PRC water tanker distributed 10,000 liters of water in Poblacion, Lagangilang and 5,000 in Brgy. South Calaba, Bangued.

Yesterday, August 7, the PRC Abra Chapter also distributed 10,000 liters of water to 89 families in Brgy. Budac, Tayum, 6,000 liters of waters to 67 families in Brgy. South Calaba, Bangued, and 6,000 L to 59 families in Brgy. North Calaba, Bangued.

As of August 7, the PRC has distributed 235,500 liters of water in Ilocos Sur and 319,965 liters of water in Abra.

“Narito pa rin ang Red Cross simula noong tumama ang malakas na lindol. Hindi natin iiwan ang ating mga kababayan hanggang matiyak natin na ang bawat apektadong tahanan ay may malinis na tubig at iba pang pangangailangan,” Chairman Gordon assured.

Gordon: FVR was a big believer in the Red Cross

Written on August 9, 2022. Posted in Features, News and Events.

Philippine Red Cross Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon, while paying his last respects to Former President Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) at Heritage Park, in Taguig, over the weekend, said FVR was a big believer in the Red Cross. Gordon attended the wake of the late president together with a delegation from the foremost humanitarian organization in the country and a representative from the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Gordon said FVR was one of the greatest supporters of the Red Cross. He cited that FVR, being a military man and able to appreciate the value of blood in war zones, was a regular blood donor through the Red Cross. “Palaging nagbibigay ng dugo. Inaawat ko na [kasi] lagpas na siya ng 65 [years old]; sabi ko ‘ilalagay na lang namin sa museum ‘yang dugo ninyo’. Pero bigay pa rin nang bigay, because symbolic iyun eh.” The PRC sets up medical tents in war zones, such as in the Marawi siege in 2017.

Gordon also shared that FVR was with him in the Mt. Pinatubo response and the July 16, 1990 earthquake response in Cabanatuan. FVR and Gordon worked together in the rehabilitation of areas in Central Luzon, including SBMA and Clark, after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. “He was always enthusiastic on finding solutions on what we can do,” Gordon said of FVR.

Gordon expressed sadness over FVR’s passing, referring to him as one of the country’s “greatest statesmen.” He attested that FVR was a president who was hardworking and recalled his “Philippines 2000” vision of having more investors in the country in order to create more jobs. He and FVR had a long working relationship in government service: FVR was president when Gordon served as mayor of Olongapo City for a second term. While mayor of Olongapo, Gordon was appointed chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority by FVR.

Gordon lauded FVR’s academic excellence, as a graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point. He said that FVR’s bearing was a good example to people who might become leaders of the Philippines. “Nakakalungkot, pero nakakatuwa na nagkaroon tayo ng katulad nya: We did not have enough of him, which is sad, but we are happy we had him at all, even for a while,” Gordon concluded.

From Day 1 of FVR’s wake, the PRC provided antigen tests to FVR’s family, friends, and mourners for free, to make sure everyone was safe. Two PRC ambulance teams were also deployed to Heritage Park to assist mourners in case there was a medical emergency. Gordon said these acts were the least PRC could do to honor FVR’s lifelong, committed support to the PRC.

Philippine Red Cross water distribution in quake-hit Northern Luzon in full swing

Written on August 4, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

As of August 2, 2022, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has distributed 201,427 liters of water, benefiting 2,212 families, or 5,571 persons, among other humanitarian aid, in Abra and Ilocos Sur, the provinces most affected by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Northern Luzon on July 27.

The PRC deployed five water tankers to North Luzon to reach the municipalities most in need of help. The water tankers supply the disaster-affected populations’ drinking water and household, sanitation and hygiene needs. They come with a filtration system, storage water bladders, and water taps. Sanitation engineers and trained personnel manage the drawing of water from local water sources.

As of date, the PRC has 28 water tankers and 17 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) hubs equipped with 30 water treatment units, trained volunteers and staff, and hygiene promotion materials. “Ang tubig ay isa sa pangunahing pangangailangan ng mga tao matapos ang impact ng lindol, dahil maaaring masira ang water sources. Ang Red Cross ay may mga water tanker sa aming regional hubs na nakahandang ipadala sa mga lugar na naapektuhan ng lindol,” Chairman Gordon said.

A usual consequence of an earthquake is damage to water distribution systems. Water districts or water distribution companies may not be able to meet the demand for water in the aftermath of an earthquake. PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon foresaw this need and initiated the humanitarian organization’s acquisition of water tankers to enable it to continually provide clean and safe water to the most vulnerable during disasters and emergencies.

Gordon underscores need for enough blood supply during disasters

Written on August 4, 2022. Posted in News and Events. Leave a Comment

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon underscored the need for enough blood supply as the premier humanitarian organization responded to people in need of emergency medical care in earthquake-hit Abra. The PRC sufficiently met the blood supply needs of casualties immediately after the impact of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Northern Luzon on July 27.

Chairman Gordon said that the foremost humanitarian organization in the country has enough blood supply for the needs of Abra, Ilocos Sur, and other areas affected by the quake. He added that Abra and Ilocos are major suppliers of blood. Chairman Gordon also assured the public that, “The PRC’s 102 blood service facilities nationwide are ready to assist in case of need.”

PRC reminded those who wish to donate blood of the qualifications: (1) Must be 16 to 65 years old, (2) Those who are 16 to 17 years old must have a written consent from a parent or guardian, (3) Must weigh at least 50 kilograms or 110 pounds, (4) Must have at least 5 hours of sleep the night before, (5) Must have no alcohol intake in the last 24 hours, and (6) Must have eaten before donating but without fatty food intake.

Female donors who have their monthly period may still donate blood, provided they pass the standard screening. A qualified person may donate blood every three months.

To request blood from the PRC, a hospital or doctor’s request must be presented. The PRC also delivers blood to decrease the transport expenses of those in need; they must send the blood request through Viber and submit the original to the person delivering the blood.

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

Philippine Red Cross honors FVR as humanitarian

Written on August 3, 2022. Posted in News and Events.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) honors former President Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) and commemorates his humanitarian legacy even as PRC mourns with his family at his passing.

FVR consistently supported PRCs’s disaster responses, most notably the Mt. Pinatubo Eruption (1991) Response and the Magnitude 7.8 Earthquake (1990) Response in Cabanatuan and Baguio.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon attests that, “FVR was not only a decorated soldier but was also a blood galloner. A blood galloner is one who has donated at least one gallon of blood in his lifetime. Being a serviceman, FVR appreciated the value of blood during emergencies and had been a regular donor since 1954. Gordon fondly remembers that FVR was truly an advocate of blood donation and that if it were up to him, he would have kept on donating blood, if not for his age being past the requirement for blood donors. Gordon would then fondly tease FVR that PRC would place his blood in a museum.

Chairman Gordon had the privilege of conferring FVR with the Gold Humanitarian Service Cross Award for his invaluable assistance and generosity to the most vulnerable through the Red Cross.

“FVR may be gone, but his humanitarian spirit will forever live on not only as a memory but as an inspiration to future generations,” Gordon says.

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