DAVAO, Philippines (Eagle News) — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Davao City chapter, in coordination with local authorities, participated in forest fire response activities in Mt. Apo in Davao from March 29 to April 3.
PRC Davao City chapter’s search and rescue team was mobilized with 13 members who helped in the firefighting efforts.
The team also set up a first aid station and provided first aid services to other responders in the area and locals who needed immediate medical assistance.
PRC Chairman Richard Gordon said that the local PRC chapters in the affected areas are currently coordinating with local government agencies on how the Red Cross can assist in providing water for the firefighters and volunteers working to suppress the fire, as well as other needed assistance.
Mt. Apo, which was declared as a natural park in 2004, is the highest peak in the country, with an elevation of 2,954 meters above sea level.
The fire in Mt. Apo started on March 26 in the Kidapawan City trail and has now ravaged several hectares of forest and grassland.