MANILA, (PIA) — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is on high alert for its annual Holy Week operations, deploying its assets and volunteers to key areas as travelers and pilgrims flock to various destinations for the long religious holiday.
PRC’s Semana Santa operations began on April 12 and will continue for 10 days until April 21.
The organization has mobilized 1,840 volunteers and 313 staff members to establish 375 first aid stations and 137 welfare desks nationwide.
In addition, PRC has 58 ambulance units, 90 foot patrol teams, 70 roving mobile units, and 40 service vehicles on standby at major public gathering points, including highways, churches, pilgrimage sites, bus terminals, airports, seaports, and tourist attractions.
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard “Dick” Gordon emphasized the organization’s readiness to assist the public in emergencies.
“Wherever you are, the Red Cross is there. You can call our hotline at 143 for immediate assistance, and we will dispatch an ambulance right away,” Gordon said. “We have mobilized a network of ambulances, first aid stations, welfare desks, and foot patrols. Even if you are at the beach and someone needs first aid, we will have personnel available.”
The PRC also shared these tips for those having the Semana Santa break:
Chairman Gordon also encouraged Filipinos to obtain a Safe Card from the Red Cross, which provides access to blood supply, ambulance services, and accident-related hospitalization coverage for an annual fee of 1,200 pesos.
“With the Safe Card, you’re not just secure; you’re also helping the Red Cross,” Chairman Gordon added.
PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwendolyn Pang highlighted the importance of safety during the holiday season.
“While it’s great to enjoy, we must ensure our safety. The Philippine Red Cross is always prepared for Semana Santa. We encourage everyone to visit our official Facebook page for the locations of our first aid stations, welfare desks, and other resources,” she said.
Dr. Pang also advised the public to prepare a first aid kit that includes essential items such as bandages, alcohol, medications, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to address dehydration.
In 2024, the PRC provided services to 8,455 individuals, operating 601 first aid stations, 46 welfare desks, 67 ambulance units, and mobilizing 2,262 personnel during the Holy Week. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photos: PRC)
