Philippine Red Cross raises P37-M as it celebrates its 70th anniversary

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) announced that it has raised a total of P37.79 million in pledges and donations since it launched on April 19 its 70th anniversary Fund and Membership Kick-Off drive.

PRC Chairman and Senator Richard Gordon thanked the organization’s donors for their generous donations.

“These pledges will go a long way in the service of the Filipino people. Thank you to everyone who pledged their support to PRC so we can serve humanity together,” said Gordon. 

The PRC is a humanitarian organization that does not receive government funding but relies heavily on private donations to carry out its programs.

Among PRC’s donors include Abott Diagnostics Transfusion Medicine, which pledged P7.2 million pesos and Wilcon Builders which pledged to give P1 million annually. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office also pledged P8.72 million for the Red Cross’ Blood Samaritan program for indigent patients in need of blood.

Gordon also thanked Red Cross volunteers throughout the country and reminded them that each Red Cross chapter needs to be ready, be first, and be where they are needed.

New ship

The PRC has come a long way since it began independent operations on April 15, 1947. It has been at the forefront of response efforts during the worst natural disasters and conflicts that affected the country, providing humanitarian relief and other services. 

Following Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), the PRC along with its affiliate Red Cross organizations worldwide, were able to build 77,066 houses and provide livelihood assistance to 62,683 families. 

The PRC has also improved its capability to respond to any disaster by building logistics warehouses all over the country and acquiring the latest technology and emergency equipment, which include 132 ambulances, fire trucks, and amphibious vehicles.

It recently acquired a humanitarian ship that’s capable of bringing relief supplies to the remotest island in the archipelago. The ship’s name was crowdsourced and will be revealed at the launch on May 9.

Million volunteer run

More than raising funds, the PRC hopes that it can motivate Filipinos nationwide to volunteer and become first aiders. 

On May 13, the PRC will stage the 4th Million Volunteer Run in Manila to promote volunteerism and its benefits. Registered runners will automatically receive a membership card as Red Cross volunteers. 

PRC Secretary General Oscar Palabyab called on PRC chapters and volunteers to be “pillars of hope, dignity, and inspiration” in times of disasters and emergencies.

“Human life is immeasurable, and by being a part of the Red Cross, you become a live saver vicariously.” – Rappler.com

MovePH, Rappler’s civic engagement arm is a media partner of the Philippine Red Cross