MANDALUYONG CITY -- As the nation observes Holy Week this year, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), as it has done consistently in the past, will provide emergency medical services (EMS) nationwide. PRC Chairman and CEO Senator Dick Gordon directed the PRC chapters to maintain a presence in strategic places during the Holy Week to assist the large numbers of travelers during this period.

“Kahit sa gitna ng pandemic, ang Red Cross ay nakahanda para umalalay sa ating mga kababayan na sasamba o magbabakasyon ngayong Semana Santa,” Chairman Gordon said.

More than 700 EMS volunteers and staff will be mobilized to operate at least 123 first aid stations and ambulance units around places of worship, highways, port areas, bus terminals, tourist destinations, and gas stations. There will be first aid stations set up in selected Petron gas stations along NLEX, SLEX, and STAR Toll as part of Lakbay Alalay, the PRC-Petron partnership to assist commuters during events and holidays that see peak traffic. The PRC Holy Week operations will start this weekend.

Within Metro Manila, which sees an exodus to the provinces during Holy Week, at least 14 EMS teams of more than 100 volunteers and staff will be deployed. More motorists are expected on roads leading outside the metropolis and within to join religious activities.

For a safe trip, remember PRC’s 10 Road Safety Commitments:

1. Use seatbelts/child car seats.
2. Wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
3. Drive at a safe speed and distance suitable to the condition.
4. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
5. Do not use a mobile phone when driving.
6. Be visible as a pedestrian or cyclist.
7. Know and respect the highway codes.
8. Maintain your vehicle in good condition.
9. Be licensed and trained for the vehicle drive.
10. Know how to react in case of a crash.

For emergency and any untoward incident, contact our 24/7 Operations Center. Dial 143 or 790-23-00 for assistance. (Philippine Red Cross)