The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) provided medical assistance to 11,429 individuals during its week-long operations for this year’s Undas.
In a statement issued on Monday, Nov. 4, the PRC Safety Services Unit reported that 11,017 individuals received free vital signs checks, including blood pressure monitoring, at its first aid stations.
The PRC noted that Emergency Medical Service (EMS) teams attended to 357 patients with minor injuries, including bruises, burns, headaches, hypertension, heat exhaustion, nausea, and nosebleeds. Additionally, they assisted 25 individuals with more serious cases, such as abdominal pain, mild strokes, and seizures.
The PRC reported that EMS teams transported 30 individuals requiring urgent medical attention to nearby hospitals via ambulance.
In addition to medical care, the PRC extended welfare assistance to 700 individuals, providing hot meals to over 590 people and offering psychological support.
A total of 359 first aid stations were set up, with 2,548 first aiders mobilized and 71 ambulances deployed.
‘Lakbay Alalay’ activities
In addition to providing medical assistance to cemetery visitors, the PRC conducted "Lakbay Alalay" activities, assisting 1,516 travelers through 43 first aid stations.
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon praised the dedication of the volunteers and staff who devoted their time to serving the public on this important occasion.
“When everyone was on vacation, our first aiders selflessly volunteered to lend their services to safeguard communities from harm,” Gordon said. “Our work in the Red Cross does not stop, does not rest. I salute our volunteers and staff for their unwavering dedication to our mission to uplift human dignity and alleviate human suffering,” he added.
Meanwhile, PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang noted that the PRC’s presence in cemeteries, highways, ports, and other locations “gave comfort” to Filipinos, knowing someone would be there to help when needed. “This year’s Undas has been a peaceful and solemn one thanks to them,” she added.