The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) joined forces to empower urban communities and prepare them for crises and disasters.
In a statement on Wednesday, Feb. 14, PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang and PCUP chair Undersecretary Elpidio Jordan Jr. signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to improve the lives of urban poor communities by providing first aid training, food and nutrition programs, and health services.
In addition, the partnership will include initiatives such as, psychological first aid training, bloodletting activities, livelihood training, and the establishment of community gardens.
Meanwhile, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard "Dick" Gordon emphasized the need to prepare communities for emergencies, particularly urban poor communities that are “more vulnerable and exposed” due to their limited access to basic services.
He also pointed out this partnership between the PRC and the PCUP is one “excellent way to be prepared.”
Pang highlighted the importance of involving urban poor communities in solution and development plans, as well as equipping them with financial literacy skills for sustainable livelihoods.
“Including the urban poor communities in the solution and development plans, adding that placing safety and health in their hands is one way to empower them,” she said.