The Philippines is stepping up its commitment to saving lives. The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) celebrated the 2nd National CPR Day on July 17. It also marked PHA’s decade of the CPR-Ready Philippines Campaign (CPR-Ready PH). This year’s event emphasized bringing CPR training to the grassroots level, ensuring more Filipinos are equipped to respond in emergencies.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared July 17 National CPR Day in March 2024. It formalized the date as an annual nationwide observance. While the CPR Act (RA 10871) became law in 2016, the PHA has proactively promoted its importance.
Dr. Don Robespierre “HeartRob” Reyes, Chair of the PHA Council on CPR, highlighted a sobering statistic. He stated that globally, only one in ten cardiac arrest victims survives. This is often due to a lack of emergency responders and inadequate emergency medical systems, especially in developing countries like the Philippines.
CPR-Ready PH: A Decade of Impact
Launched in 2015, the PHA-led CPR-Ready PH Campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement. Partnering with the Department of Health (DOH), the campaign has expanded its reach. It prioritizes training in various settings including resorts, schools, military camps, and public parks.
This year’s central event was held at Nangka High School in Marikina, a partner city of the PHA. The theme, “ZapPinas 2025: First Responder Team, sa CPR Win na Win! CPR Ready Na Ba Ang Barangay Mo?”, underscores a shift towards barangay-level preparedness. Key groups like teachers, firefighters, police officers, barangay health workers, and community watchmen are being targeted for training. These individuals are often the first on the scene during emergencies.
Nationwide Broadcast and Celebrity Support
To commemorate the day, the PHA reprised “Usapang Puso sa Puso,” a nationwide simultaneous broadcast. The broadcast featured live reports from various locations, highlighting CPR efforts across the country.
The CPR-Ready PH campaign has also benefited from the support of prominent figures. Actor-politician Richard Gomez, CPR-Ready PH Ambassador since 2017, remains a key advocate. During his time as mayor, he transformed Ormoc City into a CPR-Ready City. As a Congressman, Gomez continues to champion CPR initiatives. Senator Lito Lapid has also joined the cause. Both lawmakers filed the AED Bill promoting the use of AEDs in Public Places.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Over the past decade, CPR-Ready PH has made significant strides. Widespread training programs, legislative advocacy, and celebrity engagement have raised awareness. However, many Filipinos still lack CPR knowledge. The passage of the AED Bill promises to improve access to life-saving devices.
The PHA recognizes the need to expand its efforts. They envision CPR and AEDs as integral to a culture of preparedness in the Philippines. This includes establishing a robust Emergency Medical System. With the implementation of the CPR Act, the PHA hopes to empower a new generation of life-saving advocates.
