PRC mobilizes 1,840 volunteers for Holy Week

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) announced on Tuesday that it is on heightened alert for its annual Holy Week operations, deploying volunteers and resources across strategic locations.

For the 0-day Semana Santa period from April 12 to April 21, PRC has mobilized 1,840 volunteers and 313 staff members at 375 first aid stations and 137 welfare desks nationwide.

By Holy Wednesday, a total of 574 patients had sought medical assistance from the PRC during its operations for the Holy Week; one patient was transported to a hospital after losing consciousness while at least 15 experienced dizziness, fainting, knee pain, lower abdominal pain, and body weakness.

Chairman Richard Gordon emphasized that the public can call PRC's hotline at 143 for immediate assistance in case of an emergency, encouraging Filipinos to get a 'Safe Card' from the Red Cross for blood supply, ambulance service, and accident-related hospitalization coverage.

PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang reminded people to prioritize safety during their travels and urged them to prepare first aid kits including essential items like bandages, alcohol, medicines, and ORS.