CEBU CITY, Cebu, Jan. 15 (PIA) -- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is supporting the Sinulog Festival this year by deploying their resources and personnel throughout the month-long celebration. 

PRC has deployed two rescue boats, four ambulance units, first-aid stations with welfare desks, a food truck, and an Emergency Medical Unit/Tent (EMU) in strategic areas throughout the festival venues.

A total of 200 PRC personnel from PRC Cebu Chapter and PRC Lapu-Lapu/Cordova Chapter have been deployed to offer emergency medical services and manage the first aid stations. 

PRC also mobilized its volunteers, Emergency Medical Services foot patrollers, water search and rescue teams, medical corps, in-house doctors, and welfare teams. 

Richard “Dick” J. Gordon, chairman and chief executive officer of PRC, assured the continuous presence of PRC until the end of the festival.

He said the EMS teams would remain on standby to provide medical assistance to both Filipinos and international tourists participating in the festivities.

“Our EMS teams will remain on standby to deliver medical attention to Filipinos and international tourists participating in the Sinulog Festival," said Gordon.

The EMU will be set up at the South Road Properties on January 19 in case there are individuals requiring medical attention during the Sinulog Grand Parade.

Three rescue boats will be dispatched for the fluvial processionon on January 20.

PRC's deployment plans also include two food truck units to provide meals for Red Cross volunteer responders.

The Red Cross 143, Red Cross Youth, EMS volunteers, and medical corps are all fully engaged and operational.

Dr. Gwen Pang, PRC secretary general, has advised the public to exercise caution during the celebration, recommending attendees to stay hydrated, bring snacks, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Safety reminders have been posted on PRC's social media platforms. 

PRC's deployed assets and volunteers will continue to be on standby for upcoming festival highlights, including the Sinulog Fluvial Parade, Solemn Procession, and the Sinulog Grand Parade. (MYP/PIA 7 Cebu with reports from Philippine Red Cross)