The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) provided psychological first aid to thousands of victims of tropical storm Paeng nationwide.
On Saturday, Nov. 5, PRC said that 1,309 adults and 2,649 children from Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Sur, Cotabato City, Isabela, Kalinga, Laguna, Maguindanao, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Negros Occidental, Rizal, Romblon, and Zamboanga City received psychological first aid and participated in child-friendly activities conducted by PRC staff and volunteers.
"The Red Cross addresses not just the physical needs of those affected by the storm but also their mental health needs, to help them cope with the distress brought about by the disaster," PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard Gordon said.
The organization also stated that due to the loss of livelihood and properties of the typhoon victims, it is highly important to address their mental health status to help them cope with the effects of the disaster.
PRC added that since Oct. 28, it has been providing relief assistance to Paeng victims such as emergency rescue and evacuation, emergency medical services, hot meals, other food items, clean water, sleeping kits, hygiene kits, kitchen sets, shelter strengthening kits, clothes, slippers, cash, and more.