The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) will deploy more than 2,200 volunteers and setting up nearly 300 first aid stations nationwide to ensure the safety and well-being of travelers and cemetery-goers during the observance of Undas (All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day) from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2.
During a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview on Wednesday, PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang said the organization began preparations two weeks ahead by enlisting volunteers and conducting refresher trainings, briefings and orientations to ensure readiness.
“So, this year po, mayroon po tayong isi-setup po na 295 na first aid stations, 66 ambulance units na idi-deploy natin (This year, we will set up 295 first aid stations and deploy 66 ambulances across the country),” she said.
“Mayroon po tayong 190 ambulances, pero 66 ang idi-deploy natin, iyong the rest po ay naka-standby po iyan sa atin pong mga Red Cross offices, sa mga chapters natin nationwide (We have 190 ambulances nationwide, but 66 will be deployed, the rest will be on standby in our Red Cross chapters),” she added.
To complement the operations, the PRC will also deploy 100 foot patrol teams in areas where vehicles cannot enter, such as narrow cemetery paths, resorts and crowded public spaces.
Another 59 mobile units and 155 welfare desks will be stationed across key locations, Pang said.
The PRC will operate in over 200 cemeteries, including major ones, and in 25 areas located near cemeteries or popular tourist spots.
Volunteers will also be assigned to airports, seaports, highways, bus terminals, barangay halls and fuel stations.
The welfare desks, according to Pang, will assist lost children and individuals needing help to contact family members or report missing belongings.
These stations will also support stranded passengers by providing food packs and assistance.
In 2024, the PRC assisted more than 11,000 individuals during Undas, most of whom suffered from minor injuries such as abrasions, burns, insect bites, dizziness, chest pain and high blood pressure.
A few major cases, including heart-related incidents, severe burns, and fractures, required hospital transport.
Pang reminded the public to stay in good physical condition before traveling and to secure their homes before leaving.
She also cautioned against announcing travel plans on social media and to inform only trusted neighbors or relatives to watch over their homes.
For motorists, Pang recommended performing the “BLOWBAGETS” safety check — Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, and Self — before hitting the road.
She also emphasized safety reminders against distracted and drunk driving.
For emergencies, the public is urged to call PRC’s Hotline 143 for immediate assistance. (PNA)