In recognition of the assistance provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) awarded the Singapore Red Cross (SRC), led by Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Benjamin William.
The award was presented during the SRC delegation's courtesy visit to PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon and Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong City on Aug. 14.
“The COVID-19 pandemic was a dark time for us all,” Gordon said. “Every country struggled to keep their health systems afloat with dwindling resources in hospitals, clinics, and health centers,” he added.
Despite the global challenges, Gordon noted that the Singapore Red Cross generously provided the Philippines with masks and protective equipment. “We are truly thankful for their friendship and support,” he explained.
In 2020, the SRC shipped 40,000 surgical masks, 10,000 N95 masks, and 2,500 coveralls to augment hospital supplies and assist health workers.
Pang, for her part, expressed that the Philippine Red Cross is “grateful for the solidarity” shown by the Singapore Red Cross during the pandemic.
“It was a time of hardship, but also a time for us National Societies to come together and help each other,” she added.
In addition to the award, the PRC presented the delegation with "Pula," the Red Cross bear.
In return, the SRC gifted the PRC a custom "Snoopy" stuffed toy, created through their ongoing collaboration with the Peanuts comic strip brand.
Before the pandemic, the SRC collaborated with the PRC on various relief operations, providing aid to those affected by Typhoon Ondoy (international name: Ketsana) in 2009, Typhoon Pablo (international name: Bopha) in 2012, and Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) in 2013.
Recently, the SRC donated PHP 2.9 million (approximately $50,000) to support the PRC's efforts in aiding families and individuals affected by Typhoon Carina (international name: Gaemi) last July.
During the event, the SRC delegation included Assistant Secretary General for Operations Charis Chan, Associate Director for Global Engagement Rebekah Lim, Assistant Head for Global Engagement Fauzia Amalia, and Executive for Global Engagement Liew Yi Chen.