The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) received donations like a water tanker and food truck from the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) on Tuesday, Aug. 1.
(Photo by Mark Balmores)
In a statement issued by PRC, the donations were handed over to PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gordon from Qatar Ambassador Ahmed Saad Al Homidi at the turnover ceremony conducted at PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong City,
The Qatar Fund for Development funded the procurement of emergency equipment.
Gordon emphasized the importance of water in disaster and emergency situations. "Water is among the basic needs of people affected by disasters and emergencies," he said.
"PRC deploys within 24 hours after a hazard's impact, a package of humanitarian aid consisting of water, food, emergency medical services, and welfare services," he added.
The water tanker is the third unit given to the PRC, while the food truck is the first donated by QRCS.
Since 2012, QRCS has been a consistent and reliable partner, donating over P305 million to support PRC's disaster response efforts.
Their humanitarian aid consisted of food packs, hygiene kits, thermal blankets, tents, mosquito nets, shelter repair, shelter construction, classroom construction, latrine construction, logistical support, livelihood assistance, a food truck, and water tankers.
Moreover, Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the PRC. "We are grateful to our brothers and sisters from Qatar for this donation. They have consistently helped our country in times of crises since 2012," she said.
PRC added that the Philippines have benefited from QRCS's contributions.
Among the places that have received assistance are Aklan, Antique, Bukidnon, Cagayan, Capiz, Compostela Valley, Davao Del Sur, Iligan City, Isabela, Lanao Del Norte, Lanao Del Sur, Leyte, Maguindanao, Manila, Palawan, Rizal, Sultan Kudarat, Surigao Del Norte, and Zamboanga City. (Rhowen Del Rosario)