Cong. Edgar Chatto, Philippine Red Cross (PRC)-Bohol chairman, expressed gratitude to PRC CEO and chair Richard Gordon for the strong support for Bohol.
Gordon along with PRC Secretary General Gwen Pang, PRC Bohol Board of Directors led by vice chair Anthony Damalerio, PRC-Bohol OIC Jarlie Alucitain, formally inaugurated the newly renovated building of the chapter last March 26.
The former senator detailed what he described as a long love affair with Bohol who was among delegates in bringing home the body of the late former president Carlos P. Garcia.
Gordon likewise acknowledged Chatto as a partner, having authored in the Senate, Republic Act 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009 with Chatto as the author in Congress.
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) operations delegate Emilia Fagurland, expressed humility as she looked back at the presence of the Red Cross movement in the province over the last 10 years.
“You are the community,” she stated of the assets, volunteers and staff that are the beating heart of Red Cross movement.
The IFRC funded the P2.7 million renovation of the PRC-Bohol building that is part of the P77.1 million worth of assistance extended by the PRC in Typhoon Odette response efforts.
The building had been one of badly damaged infrastructures when the typhoon hit.
Gordon said that the renovation is one way to empower the chapter, its volunteers and communities.
Damalerio, for his part, vowed to adhere to the Red Cross slogan of always being first, ready and there with the strong commitment of national headquarters and in partnership with the local government units.
The blessing, ribbon cutting and unveiling of marker was also graced by Gov. Aris Aumentado represented by Nelson Pon, Mayor Jane Yap represented by Councilor Eliezer Borja and Atty. Abel Damalerio, Chief of staff of the First Congressional District Office.
PRC Board of Directors including Dr. Juanita Arcay, Dr. Vladimir Lim Coe, Emmanuel Pilayre, George Lim, Harvey Coto, Fr. Vic Bompat and Dr. Mary Ann Ruiz with Lope Jubac representing DepEd Bohol superintendent Dr. Casiana Caberte, were present during the occasion that was also witnessed by volunteers and Red Cross youth members.