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Holy Week 2026: Over 2,200 personnel deployed nationwide as Philippine Red Cross goes on high alert
Philippines
National
Holy Week 2026: Over 2,200 personnel deployed nationwide as Philippine Red Cross goes on high alert
Holy Week 2026: Over 2,200 personnel deployed nationwide as Philippine Red Cross goes on high alert
PRC mobilizes ambulances, first aid stations, and volunteers across transport hubs, churches, and tourist sites from March 29 to April 5
Published Mar 30, 2026 04:16 pm
Philippine Red Cross personnel assist travelers at a first aid station during Holy Week operations as millions of Filipinos journey nationwide. (PRC photo)
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Monday, March 30, announced that it has placed its operations on high alert amid an anticipated surge in travelers during the Holy Week exodus.
With millions of Filipinos expected to head to provinces, pilgrimage sites, and vacation destinations, the PRC will remain on high alert from March 29 to April 5.
The PRC noted that the annual observance once again brings crowded terminals, heavy traffic, and an increased risk of road and travel-related incidents.
To address this, the PRC has mobilized 2,224 personnel, including 1,887 volunteers and 337 staff members, deployed in strategic locations across the country.
Nationwide deployment of emergency assets
The PRC has set up 296 first aid stations and 113 welfare desks to provide immediate medical and humanitarian assistance.
Supporting these are key emergency response assets positioned in high-traffic and high-risk areas: 71 ambulances, 110 foot patrol teams, 71 roving mobile units, and 15 emergency vehicles.
The PRC said these resources are stationed along major highways, transport terminals, airports, seaports, churches, and tourist destinations, ensuring rapid response during emergencies.
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon underscored the organization’s readiness.
“Holy Week is a time when accidents can happen. At such times, just dial 143—we will immediately help you. Our ambulances, first aid stations, welfare desks, and response teams are all in place to serve the public,” he said.
He also promoted the PRC’s Safe Card program, which provides ambulance services, blood assistance, and accident-related hospitalization coverage.
Public urged to stay vigilant and prepared
PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn T. Pang called on the public to remain cautious throughout the holiday period.
She advised travelers to ensure vehicle roadworthiness and driver readiness, practice food safety during trips and gatherings, observe water safety to prevent drowning incidents, carry a basic first aid kit with essential supplies, and stay hydrated, especially amid dry season conditions.
“We encourage everyone to follow the PRC’s official platforms for updates on station locations and safety reminders,” Pang said.
Expanded operational targets
Under its Holy Week Operations Plan, the PRC aims to further scale up its response, targeting 73 ambulances, 301 first aid stations, 123 welfare stations, 111 foot patrol teams, 72 mobile units, and 2,238 total personnel.
The PRC noted that a total of 319 operational sites have been identified nationwide, including 116 churches, 43 highways, 34 beaches, 19 seaports, and 18 bus terminals.
Other locations include pilgrimage areas, mountains, parks, and public markets.
Balancing travel and solemnity
While Holy Week remains a time for travel and family reunions, the PRC reminded Filipinos to observe the occasion with solemnity, mindfulness, and safety.
As millions take to the roads and seas, the PRC stressed that preparedness and vigilance remain key to preventing accidents and ensuring a safe observance of the Lenten season.