MANDALUYONG CITY -- "Kusang loob, malasakit, at kapwa tao." These are the traits that make up the Philippine Red Cross(PRC) volunteers as they strive to be always first, always ready, and always there reaching out to serve the people no matter what the circumstances are.

As the spirit of volunteerism is at the heart of the PRC, the country's premier organization highlights the unwavering commitment of its volunteers as it celebrates International Volunteer Day, with the theme of bringing hope in the form of countless acts of kindness from one person to another.

For over 74 years, the PRC volunteers have continuously dedicated their time and effort to ensure the inclusion of those often left behind. "We have always been at the forefront of providing quality life-saving services that protect the life and dignity especially of indigent Filipinos in vulnerable situations," said PRC Chairman and CEO Senator Dick Gordon.

As the PRC remains unstoppable, the humanitarian organization would also like to pay special tribute to the courage and drive of our COVID-19 heroes. " I'm very grateful for our volunteers as they have been working hard every single day through the many ongoing programs of the PRC towards COVID-19 response. I admire your commitment to helping build a better and safer future for us all," added Gordon.

From testing, deploying negative pressure ambulances, setting up isolation facilities, emergency field hospitals, and medical tents, to providing convalescent plasma in our blood centers and mobilizing our vaccination program, the COVID-19 response of the PRC has saved millions of lives. With gratitude, Gordon added," Your efforts will not go unnoticed, as the initiatives of the Red Cross have brought about a significant change as the whole country battles the pandemic,"

"No matter what happens, we will continue to keep kindness alive, uplift the people’s dignity, and empower communities," emphasized Gordon. (Philippine Red Cross)