Red Cross conducts first aid training for Army personnel

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur --- Emphasizing the critical role that combatants can have as lifesavers, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) recently provided first aid training to Army personnel in Camarines Sur.

To mark National Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation Day on July 25, at least 17 soldiers were given training and lectures on first aid and basic life support with a focus on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the Camp Elias Angeles Station Hospital.

“All 17 participants practiced compression using jerry cans as an alternative to mannequins, demonstrating creativity and adaptability in training delivery,” noted Maria Felisa Badiola, the officer in charge of the PRC chapter in Camarines Sur. “

Army Lt. Col. Julian Gualberto Dellosa, the acting commander of Camp Elias Angeles Station Hospital, emphasized that the refresher course provided their troops with essential life-saving skills.

“Through hands-on CPR training, our soldiers stepped up not only as defenders of peace but also as first responders, ready to save lives anytime, anywhere,” said Dellosa, who also sits as member of the Board of Directors of PRC-Camarines Sur.

CPR is a first aid method used when someone experiences cardiac arrest, has difficulty breathing, or when their heart ceases to function.

As stated by the American Heart Association (AHA), CPR is a vital emergency procedure that can significantly improve the chances of survival following a cardiac arrest, potentially doubling or tripling them.

It is crucial to sustain or at least partially sustain blood circulation, as this enhances the possibility of successful resuscitation or survival until trained medical personnel arrive, according to AHA.

Badiola emphasized that the commitment of Army personnel to be prepared at all times as first responders and lifesavers aligns with the goal of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to ensure that the community and other stakeholders are ready to play a larger role in saving lives.

This is achieved by equipping individuals with essential knowledge about CPR, she said.

“We aim to continue strengthening our partnership with the Army. The Philippine Red Cross Camarines Sur Chapter, through its safety services, initiates collaborative efforts with stakeholders. Together, we save lives—one compression at a time,” she added.

National CPR Day is observed in July, as mandated by RA 10871, which requires all able-bodied citizens to be trained in basic life-saving techniques for health emergencies. (PIA Bicol)