Philippine Red Cross Mobilizes Early for Rainy Season Preparedness
As the rainy season officially begins, the Philippine Red Cross has mobilized early to protect communities nationwide. The organization activated its volunteers and strategically placed vital resources to promptly respond to emergencies such as floods, landslides, and other weather-related threats. This early action reflects the PRC’s commitment to saving lives and reducing disaster risks.
“The Philippine Red Cross is ready and on high alert as we officially enter the rainy season,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Dick Gordon. “Taun-taon tayong naghahanda para rito at mas pinapalakas pa natin ang ating kapasidad para mas marami tayong buhay na mapangalagaan at maligtas.”
Gordon directed PRC teams across the national headquarters and 102 chapters to intensify preparations. With a low-pressure area and the southwest monsoon bringing heavy rains across various regions, the organization is poised for immediate rescue and relief operations.
Comprehensive Resources Deployed Nationwide
To effectively respond, the PRC has prepositioned supplies in eight regional warehouses. It will deploy 178 ambulances, 36 food trucks, 29 water tankers, 21 Volunteer Emergency Response Vehicles, amphibious vehicles, rescue boats, and other critical emergency units. Additionally, a drone and satellite internet communication network will be activated to enhance coordination.
The PRC has also set up 17 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) hubs, equipped with mobile purification systems and emergency water bladders. Medical support includes three field hospitals, 128 medical tents, and 5,700 medical corps volunteers. These efforts are supported by 109 blood service facilities, mobile health units, and vaccination buses to address health needs during disasters.
PRC’s 4Ps: Predict, Plan, Prepare, Practice
The Philippine Red Cross emphasized the importance of its 4Ps in disaster response—Predict, Plan, Prepare, and Practice. These steps are vital for community safety and survival during emergencies.
“Preparation is the key to survival,” Gordon stressed. “Nandito ang Red Cross para tulungan kayo anumang oras, pero mahalaga rin na alam ninyo kung paano tulungan ang inyong mga sarili sa oras ng sakuna.”
The PRC encourages everyone to stay vigilant and apply the 4Ps in their daily lives, especially as the country remains vulnerable to tropical cyclones and heavy rains due to its geographic location.
Personal Preparedness: Get Your ‘Go Bag’ Ready
PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang urged families to prepare their personal ‘Go Bags’ ahead of time. These bags should contain essentials like food, water, emergency tools, medicines, clothes, money, and important documents to last several days.
“Even before a disaster strikes, we encourage everyone to organize their personal ‘Go Bag,’” Dr. Pang said. “Mahalaga ito para handa tayo sa posibleng paglikas.”
In emergencies, the public can reach the PRC 24/7 hotline by dialing 143 for immediate assistance.
For more news and updates on disaster preparedness, visit Filipinokami.com.