The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) announced on Tuesday, April 15, that it is on heightened alert for its annual Holy Week operations, mobilizing volunteers and resources across strategic locations as travelers and pilgrims head to popular destinations during the extended religious break.
In a statement, the PRC said its Semana Santa operations began on April 12.
For its 10-day operations, which run until April 21, the PRC has deployed 1,840 volunteers and 313 staff members to 375 first aid stations and 137 welfare desks nationwide.
On standby
PRC also reported that its 58 ambulance units, 90-foot patrol teams, 70 roving mobile units, and 40 service vehicles are on standby at major public convergence points such as highways, churches, pilgrim sites, bus terminals, airports, seaports, and tourist destinations.
PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard “Dick” Gordon emphasized that in case of an emergency, the public may call the PRC’s hotline at 143 for immediate assistance.
“We have mobilized a network of ambulances, first aid stations, welfare desks, foot patrols, service vehicles, and many more,” Gordon said.
Safe Card
Gordon also encouraged Filipinos to get a “Safe Card” from the Red Cross, which entitles members to blood supply, ambulance service, and accident-related hospitalization coverage.
A Safe Card, which costs P1,200 per year, gives the holder access to an ambulance and one blood unit.
“Ligtas ka na, makatutulong ka pa sa Red Cross (You're protected, and you're also helping the Red Cross),” Gordon added.
First aid kits
PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang reminded the public that while it’s important to have fun, safety should also be a priority.
Pang urged people to visit the official social media accounts of the PRC to find out the locations of its first aid stations, welfare desks, and other assets.
Moreover, Pang emphasized the importance of preparing a first aid kit for safety, which should include bandages, alcohol, medicines, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for dehydration, among other essentials.
Last year, the PRC reported serving a total of 8,455 individuals and mobilizing 601 first aid stations, 46 welfare desks, 67 ambulance units, and 2,262 personnel.