In the wake of a powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake that rocked Northern Cebu, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is preparing to deploy emergency tents to shelter thousands of displaced families. The tremor, which struck with Bogo City as its epicenter, left an estimated 2,200 families in urgent need of temporary housing.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon personally reached out to PRC Chairman Richard Gordon to request immediate assistance. The call prompted swift action from the humanitarian organization, which began mobilizing assets from its warehouses in Manila, Cebu, and Subic.

Secretary Dizon, who worked closely with Gordon during the COVID-19 pandemic, cited the effectiveness of PRC tents previously used as hospital extensions. “We saw how quickly PRC responded during the pandemic. That same speed is needed now,” he said.

PRC has family tents, medical supplies, food packs, and emergency equipment on standby, ready for rapid deployment to the hardest-hit communities. The organization is currently awaiting clearance from local government units (LGUs) to identify suitable open areas for setting up a tent city. Once the site is confirmed, PRC will also assist in camp management to ensure safety and order.

DPWH, in coordination with the Department of National Defense (DND), has pledged full logistical support, including air transport via C-130 aircraft if necessary, to expedite the delivery of aid.

Chairman Gordon praised the President’s decisive leadership, saying, “The President moved quickly and decisively. That kind of leadership is what our people need in times of crisis.”

He added that PRC is committed to alleviating the suffering of affected communities. “We will mobilize tents, deliver food and water, deploy ambulances and blood units, and send in fully equipped rescue and medical teams — even portalets,” Gordon affirmed.

As an auxiliary to the government, PRC reiterated its readiness to work alongside agencies such as DOH, DSWD, DPWH, and DND to ensure the welfare of the Filipino people.