PNRC vows more aid to Pinoys

The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) has vowed to extend more assistance to Filipinos and to strengthen relationships with its international partners.

In his speech during the PNRC’s 60th anniversary celebration at the Manila Hotel the other day, PNRC chairman Sen. Richard Gordon lauded its partners, especially the international community, in delivering services to Filipinos.

Gordon said PNRC is aiming to increase blood production for the whole country, as well as build thousands of homes for people who were affected by recent typhoons and landslides.

"We cannot do these rehabilitation efforts without the support of the other countries, in particular the United States, Japan and Australia," Gordon said.

He added that a group of Japanese volunteers is now helping build homes for the landslide victims in Guinsaugon, Southern Leyte.

He said PNRC’s Project 143 I Love Red Cross campaign aims to prepare and train communities to be self-reliant and ready in the face of calamities and typhoons.

PNRC also honored its partners in humanitarian programs such as Gen. Romeo Espino, who had provided 23 years of outstanding leadership and dedication to Red Cross duty; Loreto Paras Sulit, who had served as secretary general from 1968 to 1976; Amelia Gordon, who has been a volunteer leader since 1946 and had spearheaded establishment of the Olongapo City chapter; and Rosa Rosal, who for 56 years had promoted the delivery of blood relief, health and welfare services to the most vulnerable.

Other awardees were Manila Bulletin’s Emilio Yap, who was recognized for his commitment to humanitarian service, and former President Fidel Ramos, who had led the promotion of voluntary blood donation during his term in office and his continuing advocacy on blood donation. 

PNRC also awarded institutions such as Megaworld Corp., Metrobank Foundation, National Bookstore, Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Corp., SM Foundation Inc., Shell Philippines Exploration and Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and 36 Red Cross chapters established in 1947. – Helen Flores