Iza Aldana
Jan 9, 2026
UNDER GORDON’S LEADERSHIP, PHILIPPINE RED CROSS MOUNTS MASSIVE RESPONSE FOR NAZARENE DEVOTEES
The Philippine Red Cross was placed on full emergency footing as it responded to hundreds of medical and welfare cases during the Feast of the Jesus Nazarene, assisting 786 patients as of 10:00 p.m., January 9, 2026, according to its Safety Services and Operations Center.
PRC data showed that 403 individuals required vital signs monitoring, while 356 patients were treated for minor conditions, including dizziness, wounds, burns, sprains, fever, and abrasions. However, the situation escalated with 11 major medical cases, ranging from deep lacerations and deformities to shortness of breath and severe headaches.
At least 17 patients were rushed to hospitals for advanced care, underscoring the intensity of the operation. Six were transported to the Philippine General Hospital for critical conditions such as unresponsiveness and chest pain. Others were brought to major medical centers including Tondo Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, Philippine Orthopedic Center, Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Valenzuela Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, and Fabella Hospital.
Beyond emergency medical services, the Red Cross delivered massive welfare assistance to 2,072 individuals, distributing 1,975 food packs and providing psychosocial first aid, referrals, tracing services, and free calls to pilgrims and devotees.
The PRC Emergency Field Hospital alone catered to 39 patients, eight of whom required transfer to other hospitals. As of the latest update, most patients had already been discharged.
To manage the scale of the event, PRC mobilized 1,262 staff and volunteers, deploying 19 ambulances, 17 first aid stations, 10 welfare desks, rescue boats, medic-on-wheels units, and an emergency field hospital—highlighting one of the largest humanitarian operations during the annual religious gathering.
PRC Chairman Richard Gordon lauded the unwavering commitment of Red Cross personnel, emphasizing that the success of the operation was driven by sacrifice and service.
“This operation is made possible by our selfless staff and volunteers who serve with compassion and tireless dedication,” Gordon said. “They embody the true spirit of humanity, especially in moments when the public needs us most.”
The Philippine Red Cross continues to maintain heightened readiness as massive crowds converge for the annual devotion, reaffirming its critical role as the country’s frontline humanitarian responder.