Press Release
October 9, 2009

Gordon mobilizes volunteers for Northern and Central Luzon

Senator Richard J. Gordon, Chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross, called out to the people of Northern and Central Luzon warning them of the rising flood waters due to the overflowing of several dams and the destruction of several dikes.

"Habang maaga pa lumipat na kayo sa mataas na lugar. Ilagay niyo ang mga gamit ninyo sa second floor kung may second floor kayo at pagkatapos, magsilikas na kayo at maghanap na ng mataas na lugar. Tulungan niyo mga kapitbahay niyo at mag-coordinate kayo para magkaalaman at para makaiwas sa aksidente," he said.

Gordon warned the people that aside from flood waters coming from the overflowing dams and destroyed dikes, the people should also watch out for the incoming high tide expected during midnight. He warned people from nearby coastal areas to relocate and find shelter elsewhere since tide waters might reach chest level.

He emphasized that the people should help themselves in the meantime. He assured people that rescue teams were on their way to Pangasinan, La Union and Nueva Ecija.

The Red Cross, under Gordon's leadership, mobilized its Red Cross and Red Cross 143 volunteers in the area and deployed a total of 27 boats. Two Red Cross and SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) boats and one Red Cross Pangasinan Chapter boat were already operating since last night up until now.

The Red Cross National Headquarters initially deployed two Red Cross vehicles and six rubber boats. An additional six Red Cross rubber boats, bound for Pangasinan and La Union, and four Red Cross rubber boats, bound for Nueva Ecija, were sent together with the United States Navy and Armed Forces of the Philippines contingency.

Olongapo City and Red Cross Olongapo City Chapter sent an additional three rubber boats. While the Red Cross Tarlac Chapter sent one aluminium boat.

Gordon also called out to our United States allies asking for their participation and support in the rescue and relief operations. Gordon made several phone calls to Ms. Elzadia Washington - Daneaux, Deputy Mission Director of the USAID, asking her to coordinate with the United States government in sending their troops and equipment to conduct rescue and relief operations in the area.

Immediate humanitarian aid was given by the United States government by sending four heavy duty US Marines trucks, two M35 vehicles and two assault speedboats.

Thankful for the prompt reply, Gordon wrote Deputy Mission Director Washington - Daneaux at 3 o'clock in the morning, thanking her for the United States government's efforts in helping the Filipino people.

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