PH Red Cross on ‘high alert’ for ‘Undas,’ Paeng onslaught

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is now on “high alert” in preparation for this year’s observance of “Undas” (All Saints’ Day and All Souls Day)  and for Tropical Depression Paeng, which is expected to make landfall on Sunday.

PRC operations will start on Friday and will end on November 2.

The organization is preparing its medical assets and services to address the expected influx of people in bus terminals, seaports, airports, highways, cemeteries, memorial parks, and selected thoroughfares.

“Nakahanda ang ating mga volunteers, staff, ambulances at first aid stations para samahan ang ating mga kababayan na uuwi at dadalawin ang kanilang mga yumaong mahal sa buhay,” said PRC chairman and CEO Richard Gordon in a statement Friday.

(Our volunteers, staff ambulances, and first aid stations are ready to join our countrymen who will go home and visit their loved ones who passed away.)

“Naka standby rin ang ating mga chapters at relief operations sa pagdating ni bagyong Paeng,” Gordon added.

(Our chapters and relief operations are also on standby for the onslaught of Paeng.)

The PRC said 1,104 trained first aid volunteers and 222 staff across the country will be mobilized for fast deployment.

Meanwhile, 217 first aid stations and 62 ambulances with first aid stations will be set up in 235 cemeteries and in bus stations, seaports, and airports.

PRC quick response teams will also be stationed on major highways in Abra,  Ifugao, Mt. Province, the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Sta. Rosa in Laguna, Davao del Sur, Surigao del Sur, and along the MacArthur Highway.

According to the latest weather update from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Tropical Depression Paeng is forecast to intensify into a severe tropical storm and may turn into a typhoon on Saturday.

The PRC also reminds the public to maintain minimum health protocols against COVID-19.

Below are the PRC’ safety reminders:

• Use a seatbelt.
• Wear a helmet on a motorcycle.
• Drive at a safe speed and distance suitable for the conditions.
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving.
• Know and respect the highway code.
• Maintain the vehicle in good condition.
• Be visible as a pedestrian or a cyclist.
• Know how to react in case of a crash.
• Wear loose cotton shirts.
• Avoid bringing small children to a cemetery, if necessary, put a small piece of paper with their name and contact details in case they might get lost.
• If under medication, don’t forget to bring your medicines.
• Avoid bringing easily spoiled food.
• Don’t forget to bring drinking water, fans, face towels, and umbrellas to avoid dehydration.
• Remember “BLOW BAGETS” (Breaks, Lights, Oil, Water, Batteries, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, Self  — Trisha Manalaysay, trainee

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