PRC deploys over 1,000 volunteers for Black Nazarene procession

Starting Sunday, January 7, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) deployed over 1,000 volunteers and multiple emergency services vehicles to support medical assistance during the Black Nazarene procession in Manila on Tuesday, January 9.

Chairman Richard Gordon announced that PRC first aiders, emergency response unit personnel, and medical teams would be stationed along key points of the procession route from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the PRC reported assisting 600 individuals, with 27 requiring hospitalization for issues ranging from head trauma and abdominal pain in a pregnant woman to minor health issues like fever, cough, dizziness, body weakness, and ankle sprain.

Ten PRC first aid stations, six mobile foot patrol teams, an Emergency Field Hospital near Kartilya ng Katipunan shrine, 17 ambulances, a fire truck, two rescue boats, and an amphibious vehicle were prepositioned in strategic areas to enhance healthcare capacity and ensure readiness for potential emergencies.

All Metro Manila hospitals remain on code white alert until January 11 to prepare for any health-related incidents during the procession.