The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) reported on Wednesday that it has provided medical assistance to over 500 patients during the Holy Week observance.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, PRC Safety Services Manager Jaylord Abrigado reported that they have assisted 524 patients since Friday.
Among the cases were those who experienced breathing difficulties and other health concerns due to overcrowding, but no major incidents such as drowning have been reported so far.
“Karamihan po ng aming mga na-cater ay vital signs monitoring, lalo na po ‘yung mga senior citizens sa mga bus terminal,” said Abrigado.
“At kaugnay dito, ang mga cases po na na-cater po namin ay pananakit ng kanilang katawan, paninikip ng dibdib, pagkahilo, ‘yan sa mga ating bus terminal dahil sumisikip na at maraming tao. Mayroong mga bus terminal na walang sapat na upuan,” he added.
Moreover, Abrigado also reminded those planning to go swimming to familiarize themselves with their chosen destinations.
The Red Cross noted that, based on official data, over 20 drowning incidents were recorded in 2024—something the Philippine National Police is also working to avoid this year.
"Kung tayo ay babyahe para magbakasyon, alamin natin kung saan ang pinakamalapit na ospital, pinakamalapit na police station, at syempre alamin natin kung nasaan ang mga first aid station ng Philippine Red Cross," Abrigado advised the public.
A total of 1,840 Red Cross volunteers have been deployed nationwide to man 375 first aid stations and 137 welfare desks.
Furthermore, the humanitarian aid group is on heightened alert status until April 21.
