The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Wednesday, Oct. 9, expressed its commitment and preparedness to assist Lebanon in the wake of deadly airstrikes that have displaced approximately 1.2 million individuals.
"We see in the news the devastating impact of the ongoing violence in Lebanon—millions of lives disrupted, families uprooted, countless casualties and injuries, and critical healthcare and welfare services brought to a halt for the most vulnerable,” said PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gordon in a statement.
“In light of the ongoing situation, news of the potential repatriation of Filipinos has surfaced,” Gordon explained.
Gordon noted that the PRC, through its welfare services, is prepared to extend critical assistance to returning Filipinos, ensuring they receive much-needed support during this difficult time. “Though we are far away, we are within reach and ready to assist,” he added.
The PRC has also reiterated its dedication to upholding human dignity and alleviating suffering, extending its mission beyond the nation's borders.
Gordon highlighted the unified appeal from the PRC and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for the enforcement of international humanitarian law (IHL), stressing the legal protections afforded to civilians, children, medical personnel, and humanitarian workers in situations of war or armed conflict.
“We stand in solidarity with our Red Cross counterpart in Lebanon, the Lebanese Red Cross, whose brave teams are fulfilling their humanitarian mission on the ground, risking their own lives to help, protect, and save others,” Gordon said.
Under IHL, Gordon explained that humanitarian teams must be “protected, given safe access to provide life-saving aid, and guaranteed safe return.” The Red Cross emblems must be respected by all parties to the conflict, he added.