The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) relief and response operations 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. “Kiko” caused considerable damage when it entered the country last September 7, further intensifying Typhoon Jolina (Conson).

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa ating mga Red Cross volunteers at staff na patuloy ang pagbibigay sa atin ng updates noong panahon ng bagyo. 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 (I’m thanking our Red Cross volunteers and staff who continue to give us updates during the height of the typhoon. Through the information from them, we know what the communities need like rescue, assistance in evacuation and food or hot meals at evacuation centers),” PRC Chairman and CEO, Senator Richard Gordon said in a media release Wednesday.

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.

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.”

PRC Chapters in Cagayan and Batanes are sending out more Red Cross 143 volunteers and staff to assess the extent of damage and determine the type of assistance needed by the affected communities.

The Red Cross continues to assist disaster-affected communities amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The PRC reminds volunteers and staff to follow safety protocols. These include the proper wearing of masks, washing of hands, and observing physical distancing. (PNA)