The relief and response operations of Philippine Red Cross (PRC) are in full swing after two typhoons hit the country in one week.
Typhoon “Kiko” (Chan Thu) barreled through the northern provinces of the country and caused considerable damage when it entered the country last Sept. 7. It further intensified the effects of Typhoon “Jolina” (Conson).
To help the affected communities, the PRC Cagayan Chapter distributed hot meals to 372 individuals who were staying in identified evacuation centers.
The distribution of hot meals was through PRC's Hot Meals On Wheels, a food truck operated by Red Cross volunteers that cooks fresh food at the scene.
The chapter is in close coordination with the local government unit in Brgy. Dalaoig in Alcala for more hot meals distribution.
Meanwhile, the PRC Batanes Chapter is still assessing the damage caused by Typhoon “Kiko” as communication lines are just slowly getting back.
The provincial government of Batanes declared a state of calamity following the "massive destruction" brought by the typhoon.
The chapter already gave hot meals to the affected families. PRC Batanes was able to do preparedness measures with the community before the onslaught of Kiko.
Moreover, the PRC Chapters in Cagayan and Batanes are sending out more Red Cross 143 volunteers and staff to assess the damages and determine the type of assistance needed by the affected communities.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa ating mga Red Cross volunteers at staff na patuloy ang pagbibigay sa atin ng updates noong panahon ng bagyo (I am grateful to our Red Cross volunteers and staff for continuing to provide us with updates during the storm),” said PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Senator Richard Gordon in a statement issued Wednesday, Sept. 15.
“Sa pamamagitan ng mga impormasyong galing sa kanila, nalaman natin kung anong tulong ang kailangan ng mga komunidad, kagaya ng rescue, assistance sa evacuation at pagkain or hot meals sa evacuation centers (With the information from them, we know what help the communities need, such as rescue, evacuation assistance and food or hot meals at the evacuation centers),” he added.
As it continues to assist disaster-affected communities amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the PRC reminded volunteers and staff to follow safety protocols which include the proper wearing of masks, washing of hands, and observing physical distancing.