by emman p.
Nearly 400 students, teachers, and volunteers came together to prove that everyone can save a life.
In observance of the 10th National CPR Day on July 17, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Bohol Chapter joined all Philippine Red Cross chapters nationwide in a simultaneous celebration by launching its Hands-Only CPR Caravan 2026 at BIT International College – Main Campus.
Carrying the national theme, “Hawak Mo ang Beat: A Decade of CPR-Ready Philippines,” the activity reaffirmed the Philippine Red Cross’ continuing commitment to equipping more Filipinos with lifesaving skills and promoting a culture of preparedness in communities across the country.
The provincial launching was graced by Hon. Dionisio Joseph V. Balite, Member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bohol, who served as the Guest of Honor, and Dir. Harvey A. Coto, Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter. Their presence underscored the strong partnership between the local government, educational institutions, and the Philippine Red Cross in advancing community resilience and emergency preparedness.
Each handprint on our CPR Caravan 2026 Wall of Commitment represents a promise to be ready, to take action, and to help save lives when every second counts.
The event gathered nearly 400 students, faculty members, volunteers, government representatives, and partner organizations, who actively participated in Hands-Only CPR demonstrations and awareness sessions aimed at empowering ordinary citizens to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies.
The nationwide observance highlights the vital role of immediate bystander intervention in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Medical experts emphasize that prompt and continuous chest compressions performed before emergency medical responders arrive can significantly increase a victim’s chances of survival.
According to Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter Administrator Mr. Emmanuel C. Pilayre, the chapter’s 2025 Hands-Only CPR Caravan reached more than 8,000 individuals across Bohol, reflecting the increasing public awareness and interest in learning lifesaving CPR skills. Building on this milestone, the chapter aims to surpass last year’s accomplishment by expanding the caravan’s reach to more communities and making Bohol even more prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies.
Following the successful launch, the PRC Bohol Chapter officially commenced its Hands-Only CPR Caravan, a province-wide campaign that will run from July 17 to October 16, 2026. The caravan will bring FREE Hands-Only CPR training to schools, companies and workplaces, barangays, government offices, and community organizations throughout Bohol.
Organizations interested in hosting the caravan are encouraged to organize a minimum of 100 participants. The Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter will provide certified instructors, CPR manikins, and training materials free of charge. While the program is offered at no cost, sponsorships in cash or in kind are welcome to support volunteers and enable the caravan to reach even more communities across the province.
The Philippine Red Cross Bohol Chapter likewise expressed its gratitude to BIT International College for hosting the provincial launch, as well as to its Safety Services instructors, Red Cross Youth volunteers, partner agencies, and participants whose collective efforts contributed to the success of the event.
As the caravan continues its journey across Bohol over the next three months, the chapter hopes to train thousands more Boholanos and inspire a culture where every citizen is prepared to respond during life-threatening emergencies.
Beyond the Hands-Only CPR Caravan, the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter continues to offer nationally recognized training programs in Standard First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Lifeguarding, Water Safety, and other emergency preparedness courses. These programs equip participants with the knowledge, practical skills, and certifications needed to respond confidently during emergencies and help save lives.
Individuals who wish to become trained and certified in First Aid, Basic Life Support, or Lifeguarding are encouraged to visit the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter or contact the Safety Services Office at 0951 883 2528 for course schedules, registration, and other inquiries.
With the message, “Hawak Mo ang Beat: A Decade of CPR-Ready Philippines,” the Philippine Red Cross continues its mission of creating communities where more people are equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and compassion to save lives—one heartbeat at a time.