THE PHILIPPINE Red Cross has trained 43,206 first aiders from January to October this year.

PRC said that those who underwent training can help reduce the strain on medical institutions because they have the skills to prevent a medical condition from deteriorating.

It said that knowing when and how to give proper cardiopulmonary resuscitation can spell the difference between life and death, especially during a pandemic.

The PRC said that the most number of trainees came from the National Capital Region — 13,918. There were 5,401 from Northern Luzon, 4,138 from Central Luzon, 4,473 from Southern Tagalog, 1,869 from Bicol Region, 6,805 from Visayas, and 6,602 from Mindanao.

“Basic first aid skills are very important and making it accessible to all is an important humanitarian act. It is, therefore, a crucial must. During the pandemic, with restrictions and safety protocols, PRC is finding ways to reach more people and to fulfill the goal of having one first aider per household,” PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Senator Richard Gordon said.

“We are encouraging everyone to be that first aid hero in your family, in your school, and your community,” he added.