By John Aldrin Casinas As part of its fundraising efforts in this season of giving, the Philippine Red Cross has recently introduced “Pula” – an adorable teddy bear that seeks to bring comfort and aid to people affected by disastrous calamities in the country. Fashioned in a red and white t-shirt with the logo of the PRC, Pula is a furry, brown teddy bear that serves as “a symbol of love, security and treasured memories.” “As the season of giving draws nearer, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) introduces another reason to remem-‘bear’ the true spirit of the season which is giving and sharing,” the PRC said. “Each purchase of this holiday treat will help PRC provide the needs of disaster-affected population,” it added. For only P799 each, PRC said kind-hearted individuals who will purchase Pula will help provide disaster-hit families with two to three days worth of food supplies. “Paying for two bears is equivalent to donating a hygiene kit, while four bears are worth one mother and newborn kit,” the PRC said in a statement. “Five of these huggable fellows can make one shelter tool kit possible while six Pulas amount to one multi-purpose cash grant for a family,” it added. Pula was launched during the PRC’s Christmas tree-lighting ceremony on November 21. PRC said Pula can be purchased at its headquarters in Mandaluyong City, and at PRC chapters nationwide. “Families and individuals affected by health emergencies like the outbreaks of measles, dengue and polio, along with the series of earthquakes which rocked regions in Batanes and Mindanao, are in need of steady support as recovery and rehabilitation is still far from sight,” the PRC said.