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Rhodina Villanueva - The Philippine Star
April 16, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — As part of its heightened preparedness for Holy Week, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has placed its operations on high alert and dispatched more than 2,000 personnel across the country.
According to the PRC, volunteers and staff have been strategically deployed to key locations in anticipation of increased public movement as travelers and pilgrims visit various destinations during the long holiday.
Over the course of its 10-day operation, which began on April 12, the PRC has deployed 1,840 volunteers and 313 staff members to 375 first aid stations and 137 welfare desks set up nationwide.
In support of these efforts, 58 ambulances, 90 foot patrol teams, 70 roving mobile units and 40 service vehicles have been positioned in high-traffic areas including major highways, churches, pilgrimage sites, bus terminals, airports, seaports and popular tourist spots.
PRC chairman and CEO Richard Gordon assured the public of immediate response through the organization’s emergency hotline.
“You can call 143 and we will right away send an ambulance. We mobilized a network of ambulances, first aid stations, welfare desks, foot patrols and service vehicles,” said Gordon in a statement.
He added, “If you are at the beach and a drowning incident occurred, we have a representative there to give first aid.”
Gordon also encouraged the public to consider availing of the Red Cross “safe card,” which provides access to blood supply, ambulance services and accident-related hospitalization coverage.
“For P1,200 pesos yearly, you are provided an ambulance and one blood unit. Your safety is guaranteed and you are able to help the Red Cross as well,” said Gordon.
Meanwhile, PRC secretary-general Gwendolyn Pang urged the public to check the official PRC Facebook page for updates on the locations of first aid stations and welfare desks.
She also highlighted the importance of personal preparedness, advising the public to carry a first aid kit equipped with essentials such as bandages, alcohol, medicines and oral rehydration salts for dehydration.
During last year’s Holy Week, the PRC assisted 8,455 individuals and mobilized 601 first aid stations, 46 welfare desks, 67 ambulance units and 2,262 personnel.
