In the wake of the back-to-back landfalls of Severe Tropical Storms Kristine and Leon, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) announced on Tuesday, Oct. 29, that it will mobilize 2,297 committed first aiders from 98 chapters and branches nationwide to assist Filipinos during this year’s observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, or “Undas.”
PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gordon assured that the first aid teams are well-equipped to handle a large volume of potential patients during their week-long duties, especially with the expected influx of people traveling to the provinces for Undas.
“For many Filipinos, this is the only time in the year that they can freely visit their departed loved ones and reconnect with relatives, traveling by air, land, and sea to their provinces,” Gordon said.
“We want to ensure they are in good health when they go to the cemeteries and churches, and that they feel at ease knowing that if they experience any health problems, our volunteers are easily accessible and ready to help,” he added.
The PRC said that the volunteers will operate 320 first aid stations nationwide.
These stations are strategically located in over 300 cemeteries, including Manila North and South Cemeteries, La Loma Cemetery in Caloocan, and The Heritage Park in Taguig.
Additional stations will be set up at 30 PRC chapters, along 15 highways, at 12 bus terminals, 12 seaports, six gas stations, and five beaches, as well as at the airport, churches, malls, and barangay halls.
The PRC noted that the majority of the stations will be set up by Oct. 30, with some established a day earlier to accommodate early visitors to the cemeteries.
PRC’s operations are expected to last until Nov. 3.
Approximately 104 patrol units, 60 ambulance units, and 57 mobile units will be deployed to ensure comprehensive coverage and provide immediate treatment or medical assistance to those in need.
Additionally, 159 welfare desks will be available at the sites to address people's concerns.
Typhoon-affected areas
Despite the severe impact of “Kristine” on Bicol, PRC local chapters in the region, including Albay, will continue with their Undas operations.
Gordon added that the PRC is closely monitoring “Leon” and other weather disturbances that may occur during Undas. He assured that if any disasters arise this weekend, Red Cross 143 volunteers will be mobilized, and the necessary assets will be deployed.
Be vigilant
Meanwhile, PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang reminded people to remain vigilant throughout Undas.
“Before leaving your homes, make sure to lock your doors, never leave lit candles unattended, and do not keep electric appliances plugged in,” she said. “Our first aiders will be there to help, but we encourage people to also bring their own first aid kits in case of emergencies,” she added.
Moreover, Pang reminded the public to make use of the Red Cross First Aid PH app to “learn the proper ways to perform first aid and CPR, especially if no first aider is nearby.”