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MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) received a donation worth €10,000, equivalent to Php 691,710, from Siemens Energy during a turnover ceremony held on January 22, 2026. The contribution will support PRC’s humanitarian operations, enabling the organization to further strengthen its disaster response and essential services for vulnerable communities across the country.

Siemens Energy’s delegation was led by Mr. Benedicto F. Estepa, Managing Director, and Mr. Ralf Wiegel, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. As part of the visit, the delegation toured the PRC Operations Center, where they gained insights into how the organization responds during emergencies, its ongoing and recent humanitarian operations, and its long-term recovery initiatives, including housing projects for disaster-affected families.

The delegation was also briefed on PRC’s rolling assets and wide range of services, including healthcare, welfare support, and emergency response operations, all aimed at ensuring that assistance reaches families in need, even in the most remote and disaster-stricken areas.

Mr. Estepa emphasized the importance of the partnership between Siemens Energy and the Philippine Red Cross, noting their shared commitment to service and protection. “The partnership between Siemens Energy and the Philippine Red Cross is very important. Both parties serve, value, and protect the industry and the people. While the Philippine Red Cross focuses more on the people, we concentrate on serving the industry. And as we all know, the industry and the people are part of the community, so helping and providing aid are shared visions between the two parties—which I believe is a very noble deed.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Wiegel underscored Siemens Energy’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship in the Philippines. “Siemens Energy would like to play a positive corporate role in the Philippines. Supporting the Philippine Red Cross with the setup you have is the most efficient way to reach those in need, as we alone cannot do it; we do not have the resources or the infrastructure. That is why we need an organization like the Philippine Red Cross to better channel our assistance. This organization also knows exactly what affected communities need at first sight. So, if other private institutions would like to help, I would definitely recommend the Philippine Red Cross.”

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon expressed his appreciation for Siemens Energy’s donation and support. “Siemens Energy helps make the world go round by powering industries, communities, and progress. And they extend that power beyond energy and into humanitarian action through their donation to the Philippine Red Cross. We are deeply grateful to Siemens Energy for choosing to stand with us in our mission of humanity and for helping ensure that lifesaving assistance reaches families in need, especially during times of disaster,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon.

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwendolyn Pang likewise conveyed her gratitude, emphasizing the impact of Siemens Energy and PRC’s partnership in sustaining humanitarian efforts. “We sincerely thank Siemens Energy for their donation. This act of generosity and kindness allows the Philippine Red Cross to remain true to its mantra: always first, always ready, and always there for the affected communities, and families whose dignities are damaged by their losses,” Pang said.

Through partnerships with organizations such as Siemens Energy, the Philippine Red Cross continues to enhance its capacity to deliver timely, effective, and compassionate humanitarian assistance to those most in need.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC), under the support of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (ICRC), is supporting the government-led Ligtas Tigdas: Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), a nationwide effort to protect millions of Filipino children from measles and rubella, two highly contagious and potentially deadly diseases.

The campaign will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 runs from January 19 to February 13, 2026, covering Mindanao and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), while Phase 2 will be implemented in Luzon and the Visayas in June 2026. During the first phase, the campaign aims to reach 800 communities and vaccinate over 50,000 children through 66 vaccination teams made up of PRC trained staff and volunteers.

As an auxiliary to the government in the humanitarian field, the Philippine Red Cross will mobilize volunteers and staff to support community engagement, health promotion, and coordination at vaccination sites, particularly in vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas. 

“Measles and rubella remain a serious threat to children, especially in communities with limited access to health services. Through Ligtas Tigdas, we are working with our partners to help ensure that no child is left unprotected. Vaccination saves lives, and this campaign is a vital step toward preventing avoidable illness and death,” said PRC Chairman & CEO Richard J. Gordon. 

“Our strength lies in our presence at the community level. By working alongside health workers and local governments, our volunteers help build trust and encourage parents to bring their children to vaccination sites. This is how we protect communities before outbreaks happen,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

The Ligtas Tigdas campaign targets children aged 6 to 59 months and aims to protect them from severe complications, hospitalization, and death caused by measles and rubella.

The Philippine Red Cross continues to support national and local efforts to strengthen public health, disaster preparedness, and community resilience, guided by its humanitarian mandate to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it is found. Individuals interested in similar campaigns are encouraged to visit the nearest PRC Chapter or contact the PRC Hotline 143 for more information. The Philippine Red Cross remains Always First, Always Ready, and Always There.

MANDALUYONG CITY — On 19 January 2026, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) received a donation of Php 150,000 in cash and 20 sets of solar lights from the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila and the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines (MCCI) to support communities in Cebu affected by the recent earthquake and typhoons.

The Embassy of Malaysia and the MCCI has long been a reliable humanitarian partner of the Philippine Red Cross, extending support during major emergencies, including previous in-kind donations for families affected by typhoons and floods. The provision of solar lights reflects a shared focus on practical and sustainable solutions that help improve safety and living conditions, especially during power outages and disaster response operations.

“This donation reflects ASEAN solidarity in action. Through the support of the Embassy of Malaysia and the MCCI, we are able to extend timely, life-saving assistance to more communities in need.” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon. 

“This generous support from the Malaysian Embassy and the MCCI means we can be there for more families when disaster strikes. Every donation helps us reach people in their most urgent moments and show them they’re not alone,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

“We appreciate the work of the Philippine Red Cross across the country, especially in Cebu. When we went on the ground, we saw firsthand how often disasters strike here and we clearly saw the PRC actively responding and present on the ground,” said Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony.

“While the financial aid assists with immediate needs, the solar lights represent our commitment to disaster response and preparedness. In the wake of disasters, light becomes more than just a utility—it also becomes safety, security, and hope. Through this, the Malaysian community stands in solidarity with the Philippines, especially the communities affected by the earthquake and typhoons in Cebu,” said MCCI President How Han Hui.

The Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines is the first ASEAN member country to establish a business chamber in the Philippines. It has continuously engaged the Malaysian private sector in supporting humanitarian and development initiatives, demonstrating the important role of businesses in humanitarian action.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Japan’s Tokushukai Medical Group are exploring collaboration to bring advanced cancer treatment technologies to the Philippines following a strategic meeting at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong City.

The Tokushukai delegation was led by Dr. Shuzo Kobayashi, Ph.D., Executive Managing Director of Tokushukai Medical Group and President & CEO of Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, together with Ms. Meg Ohashi, R.N., BSN, h-MBA, Chief Strategic Officer of Shonan Kamakura General Hospital; Dr. Kenji Shuto, MPH, Vice Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture; and Mr. Kiyoshi Wakamiya, Advisor of Tokushukai Medical Corporation.

Discussions focused on PRC’s plans to develop a new hospital along EDSA and on expanding access to cutting-edge cancer care for Filipinos through international partnerships.

PRC is opening pathways to access leading-edge oncology technologies, including Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT)—a highly targeted Japanese cancer treatment that allows a boron-based medicine to concentrate in cancer cells and be activated by a controlled neutron beam for about 30 minutes, destroying cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, BNCT can often be completed in a single session and is currently available in only about 10–11 facilities worldwide.

The partnership also explores X-ray IMRT (TomoTherapy) and Proton Therapy, both advanced radiation treatments now considered first-line options for many pediatric and hard-to-treat cancers.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon said, “This will be a game changer for cancer care in the Philippines. Through this partnership, we are bringing the most advanced, life-saving technologies closer to Filipinos—especially those who have long been denied access to world-class treatment.”

Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, a tertiary acute-care institution, provides advanced radiation therapies and is preparing to initiate BNCT, while Tokushukai Medical Group operates approximately 90 hospitals and over 340 medical, nursing, and welfare facilities across Japan.

CEBU CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC), in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), started a two-day relief distribution on 14–15 January 2026, providing Php 12.34 million worth of humanitarian assistance to 1,800 families across Bogo and San Remigio.

Under the leadership of PRC Chairman & CEO Richard Gordon, the PRC has now provided around Php 1 billion in assistance to Cebu communities affected by disasters over the years. For Typhoon Haiyan alone, PRC has given over Php 627 million worth of aid with 8,671 houses built, 8,354 families given livelihood assistance, 2,506 families receiving cash grants, along with the distribution of food and non-food items worth Php 119 million. Then, in Typhoon Odette, about Php 73 million was given as assistance consisting of 70 houses built, 1,263 shelters repaired, 500 families given livelihood assistance, 2,933 families receiving cash grants, and the distribution of food and non-food items worth Php 22 million. Apart from this, PRC’s developmental projects in Cebu have reached over Php 265 million.

“The Philippine Red Cross has always been in Cebu, ready to help every time disaster strikes. Over the years, we have provided over Php 1 billion worth of assistance to communities across the region, and we will continue to stand by the people of Cebu whenever they need us. As kababayans, we should all strive to help each other. Just as PRC has helped Cebu, it is my hope that the people of Cebu also help others in their time of need,” said Chairman Gordon.

As part of PRC’s recovery operations for Cebu after the magnitude 6.9 earthquake and Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi), PRC extended assistance to 489 families in Bogo City, distributing non-food items and emergency shelter materials at the Don Celestino Sports Complex in Barangay Taytayan. Families from Barangays Anonang Sur and Marangog received jerry cans, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, tarpaulins, and shelter tool kits, amounting to Php 2.9 million in aid.

In the Municipality of San Remigio, the PRC distributed multipurpose cash grants (MPCGs) worth Php 8.3 million to 1,083 families from Barangays Calambua, San Miguel, and Tacup at the Barangay San Miguel Covered Court. These cash grants are designed to supplement previous assistance and provide families with support that can be used immediately to address their most urgent needs and help them get back on their feet.

In Cebu City, Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) was provided to 228 families, including 119 families in Barangay Binaliw and 109 families in Barangay Lusaran. This assistance totaled Php 1.14 million.

“Behind every distribution is a coordinated effort by PRC staff, volunteers, and local partners. Our goal is not just to deliver aid, but to ensure that families feel supported and not alone in their recovery,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

Also in attendance during the distribution were IFRC Head of Delegation Sanjeev Kafley, Bogo City Mayor Maria Cielo “Mayel” Martinez, and other local government officials. 

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) launched its Safe Card Program in Cebu through an event launch and press conference scheduled on January 14, 2026 in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. This milestone event aims to strengthen community preparedness, volunteerism, and access to emergency services in Central Visayas.

For only ₱1,200 a year, PRC’s Safe Card is a membership and preparedness program that connects members to the organization’s nationwide network of trained responders and PRC Services such as blood, disaster management, health, safety, welfare, and WASH, while serving as a gateway to active volunteerism.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon emphasized the significance of the upcoming launch: “The Safe Card is about preparedness, protection, and participation. It allows every Filipino to be part of the Red Cross mission—ready to respond, ready to help, and ready to save lives when emergencies strike.”

PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang added: “Through the Safe Card Program, we aim to build a stronger base of trained volunteers and prepared citizens. This program strengthens our 143 volunteer network and ensures that help is always within reach, especially during disasters and emergencies.”

The launch hosted prominent leaders, government officials, international dignitaries, and corporate partners from across Cebu, including members of the PRC Board of Directors from the Lapu-Lapu City and Cebu Chapters, nearby government agencies, private organizations, as well as representatives from major industrial and economic zones.

The press conference provided attendees and the public with insights on the Safe Card’s objectives, benefits, and reach, as well as its role in expanding PRC’s volunteer and donor networks nationwide.

The Safe Card launch in Cebu represents a step forward in PRC’s ongoing mission to build a safer, more prepared nation, where every Filipino can actively participate in protecting lives and strengthening communities.

For more information on the PRC Safe Card, the public is encouraged to follow the official PRC social media pages. For any emergencies, contact the PRC Hotline 143. The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has successfully concluded its full-scale humanitarian operations for the Feast of Jesus Nazarene, one of the country’s largest religious gatherings, following the completion of the procession on January 10, 2026. The image arrived at Quiapo Church at 10:52 AM, marking the end of a nearly 31-hour procession—the longest in Philippine history—with a participation of 9.64M devotees, as reported by the Quiapo Church Command Post.

From January 8 until 11:00 AM on January 10, PRC staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly to provide assistance to devotees and keep the Feast of Jesus Nazarene safe for all.

PRC medical teams in First Aid Stations across the procession’s routes catered to 1288 patients. A total of 629 individuals underwent vital signs monitoring, while 622 patients were treated for minor conditions such as dizziness, minor wounds, abrasions, sprains, burns, contusions, fever, and lacerations. 17 patients required major medical intervention due to conditions including deep lacerations, fractures, deformities, shortness of breath, and severe pain. 20 patients were transported to hospitals across Metro Manila for further treatment.

Meanwhile, the PRC Emergency Field Hospital (EFH) at Kartilya ng Katipunan provided care to 44 patients, with 34 treated and discharged for minor conditions and 10 transported to nearby hospitals. Patients were received through walk-ins, PRC ambulance referrals, and other responding groups like the Department of Health who referred 6 patients.

In addition to medical services, PRC extended welfare assistance to 2,204 individuals, including the distribution of 2,075 food packs, psychological support services, family tracing, referrals, and free communication assistance to help devotees reconnect with loved ones.

As part of its WASH operations, PRC distributed 1,300 liters of potable water and 10,000 liters of domestic water, serving 2,950 individuals to help prevent dehydration and maintain sanitation throughout the prolonged procession.

“This has been the most difficult Traslación in Philippine history. The procession lasted almost 31 hours and faced unexpected challenges. Yet, despite these obstacles, our team pressed on tirelessly, working over 48 hours on the ground to ensure the safety of the people. To all our volunteers and staff, I salute you. You make the impossible possible, and the Filipino people are fortunate to have your dedication in every mission you undertake,” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon.

“With the help and hard work of everyone, the Philippine Red Cross was able to cater to over 1200 patients in our First Aid stations, more than 2000 were given welfare assistance, and over 40 were admitted to our Emergency Field Hospital. To all the volunteers, may the feast be a testament to what our faith can do,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

The Philippine Red Cross extends its gratitude to its volunteers, partner agencies, and the public for their cooperation and support, reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian service, even during major national events.

MANDALUYONG CITY — As the country welcomes the New Year, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is calling on the public to start the year by giving patients a new lease on life through blood donation.

While the holiday season and gift-giving celebrations may have ended, the need for blood remains constant. Hospitals continue to rely on a steady blood supply for emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, and life-saving treatments such as cancer care and dialysis. Historically, blood donations decline in the weeks before, during, and after the holidays as people return to work, school, and their daily routines. This ushers in what is known as the annual “lean months” for blood supply.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon emphasized that the New Year is an opportunity to extend the spirit of generosity beyond celebrations. “The New Year is a time for fresh starts and renewed hope. By donating blood, we are giving patients a second chance at life. Blood is needed every single day, and this simple act of compassion can make the difference between life and death,” said Chairman Gordon.

The post-holiday period often sees fewer mobile blood drives in schools and offices, making walk-in donors especially vital in sustaining the country’s blood supply. During these lean months, voluntary blood donors play a critical role in ensuring that hospitals remain prepared for both routine procedures and unexpected emergencies.

“Even as the year changes, the need for blood does not. Patients continue to undergo surgeries, mothers give birth, and emergencies can happen without warning. Donating blood at the start of the year is a powerful way to turn goodwill and compassion into action that saves lives,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

With 110 blood service facilities all over the country, the PRC encourages healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to visit their nearest Red Cross blood donation center or mobile blood drive. Donors are advised to get enough rest, eat before donating, and bring a valid ID.

By choosing to donate blood this New Year, the public helps ensure that safe and sufficient blood is available when every second matters.

For updates on blood donation sites and scheduled drives, follow the Philippine Red Cross on its official social media channels or contact the nearest PRC chapter.

In case of emergencies, call the PRC Hotline 143.

For blood donations, visit https://redcross.org.ph/give-blood/ 

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need.

MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) celebrated International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2025 on December 6 at the PRC Logistics & Multipurpose Center in Mandaluyong City, gathering thousands of RC 143 volunteers from chapters nationwide, both onsite and online. Although IVD is globally celebrated on the fifth of December, PRC moved its celebration to December 6 to allow volunteers to travel safely, avoid heavy traffic, and participate fully.

This year’s theme, “PRC 143 Volunteers In Every Barangay: Local Everywhere. Every Contribution Counts” emphasizes how volunteers serve their own neighborhoods yet create a nationwide humanitarian impact, regardless of how small or big the act of service or volunteerism is. The Rizal and Quezon City Chapters recorded the highest turnout of attendees. Moreover, the celebration was hosted by Sam Oh, a Korean TV and radio personality who has lived in the Philippines for two decades and who proudly volunteers with PRC.

In his message, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon honored the vital role of volunteers, stating, “Everything we accomplish—from reaching remote communities to responding swiftly in times of crisis—is possible because of our volunteers’ unwavering dedication. They are our eyes, arms, and legs on the ground, bringing relief, restoring dignity, and offering hope to those affected by disasters. While today is dedicated to honoring them, we truly celebrate them every day as heroes who put others first before themselves.”

PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn T. Pang also echoed this tribute in her welcome remarks, saying, “The movement has always been built on ordinary people who choose to act extraordinarily for others. Here in the Philippines, volunteerism runs deep in our culture—the ‘bayanihan’. In the Philippine Red Cross, the spirit of volunteerism comes alive through our volunteers who respond first and stay longest—whether in rescue, relief, health promotion, disease prevention, or in providing water, blood, welfare services, psychosocial support, and many more services to affected communities.”

PRC celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 and promotes PRC's Safe Card Program (Photo Courtesy of PRC Communications).

The ceremony continued with messages and reflections from PRC governors and partners. Gov. Ernesto S. Isla, Chairman of the Quezon City Chapter, led the opening prayer, followed by the reading of the Seven Fundamental Principles by Gov. Edward Thomas F. Joson of the Nueva Ecija Chapter. Sanjeev Kumar Kafley, Head of Delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), delivered a special message recognizing the unwavering strength of PRC’s volunteer base. Gov. Elizabeth S. Zavalla, Chairperson of the Volunteer Service Committee, led volunteers in a pledge of commitment, while Gov. Corazon Alma G. De Leon delivered the closing message. Chapter administrators also expressed their chapters’ renewed commitments to humanitarian service for the coming year, stating their target numbers for Safecard and volunteer memberships.

The event likewise strengthened PRC’s visibility and promoted the PRC Safecard Membership Program, a one-year personal accident assistance coverage designed for emergencies, accidents, health crises, and disasters.

At the heart of the celebration were the PRC volunteers themselves—people who are the backbone of the RC 143 system, the lifeblood of community preparedness, and the force behind countless preparedness, response, and recovery operations across the country. Their presence in every barangay ensures that humanitarian service begins at the community level and radiates outward, proving that volunteerism rooted locally can transform lives everywhere. Their dedication reflects the deep Filipino spirit of bayanihan, which continues to strengthen PRC’s humanitarian mission and vision.

This year’s International Volunteer Day reaffirmed the indispensable role of PRC volunteers whose local actions create life-changing impact nationwide—embodying the true essence of being locally everywhere, significantly contributing to the betterment of humanity.

For any emergencies, call the PRC Hotline #143.

MANDALUYONG, Philippines — To support families affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu, Sandoz Philippines Corporation has donated P350,000 worth of essential medicines to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). 

During the turnover ceremony held on December 3 at the PRC Tower, Sandoz Philippines was represented by Country Head Caroline Choy, Chief Financial Officer Kristine Marie Dela Cruz, Head of Regulatory Affairs Grace Olympia, and Head of Medical Affairs Mary Ann Evangelista. The delegation met with PRC executives and toured the PRC’s Operation Center (OpCen) afterwards.

Sandoz Philippines’ donation will strengthen PRC’s ongoing health and medical response in affected communities, particularly supporting the treatment of respiratory infections, bacterial illnesses, and chronic conditions such as hypertension. 

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon emphasized the importance of strong collaboration with the private sector. “Disasters often strain local health services, particularly in hard-hit communities. Support from partners like Sandoz allows us to bridge critical gaps in care and ensure that children, older persons, and those with ongoing medical needs receive timely treatment,” he said.

“Access to quality medication is a critical part of recovery, and we thank Sandoz for their generosity and partnership during a time when many families need support,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang. 

In an interview with Sandoz Philippines’ Country Head Caroline Choy, she explained what made Sandoz Philippines donate to the victims of the earthquake through the PRC. 

“We want Filipino patients to have access to our quality medicines. And the only way we can do that is if we find a reputable organization that can represent us where we can provide those medicines and would have an immediate reach for those affected. And one thing that we decided on was to go to the Philippine Red Cross. From what we have observed, in all the incidents or calamities that happened in the Philippines, PRC has always been the first on the ground. The PRC has the capability and ability to reach the people who were affected by the calamities,” said Choy. 

Sandoz Philippines, the local subsidiary of the global generics and biosimilars company Sandoz, has a longstanding partnership with the Philippine Red Cross. In August 2020, they donated a year-long supply of medicines benefiting nearly 10,000 patients with infections and 6,000 individuals managing hypertension nationwide.

The Philippine Red Cross continues to work with partners to extend humanitarian aid for families affected by recent disasters, ensuring that life-saving assistance reaches communities swiftly and effectively. If you’re interested in making a donation, visit our website at https://redcross.org.ph/ways-to-donate/ 

For any emergencies, please contact the PRC Hotline #143.

The Philippine Red Cross is Always First, Always Ready, and Always There for communities in need. 

Philippine Red Cross

Born officially in 1947, but with roots that traces back to the revolutionary days, the Philippine Red Cross has truly become the premier humanitarian organization in the country, committed to provide quality life-saving services that protect the life and dignity especially of indigent Filipinos in vulnerable situations.

Address: 37 EDSA corner Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550
Emergency Hotline: 143
Trunkline +63 2 8790 2300
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