Holy Week Exodus gets a safety boost as Bell-Kenz Pharma deploys AEDs to CPR-trained frontliners

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Via GRAPHIC PLUS — As millions of Filipino commuters prepare for the annual Holy Week exodus, transport frontliners—including bus drivers, conductors, and terminal personnel—are now better equipped to respond to medical emergencies, made possible through the strategic partnership between Bell-Kenz Pharma, various key transport stakeholders, and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Reinforcing its commitment to public safety, Bell-Kenz Pharma ceremonially turned over three Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on March 23, 2026—two units to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and one to the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT).

This initiative strengthens the emergency response capabilities of frontline personnel during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.

The turnover builds on the success of the February 24, 2026 Sagip CPR training, “Paghahanda Para sa Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2026: Sagip CPR,” a collaboration between Bell-Kenz Pharma, DOTr, PITX, and other 

The program trained over 800 transport personnel—including drivers, conductors, terminal staff, security personnel, and members of the Philippine Coast Guard—transforming them into capable first responders equipped with life-saving knowledge and skills.

Present at the landmark ceremonial turnover were Rear Admiral Oliver Sy Tanseco of the Philippine Coast Guard and Mr. Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma. The initiative also provided transport frontliners with hands-on training in Hands-Only CPR, proper AED use, heart health awareness, illness prevention in public transport settings, and emergency response protocols.

Highlighting the importance of sustained preparedness, Mr. Patrick Larraga of Bell-Kenz Pharma shared:

“This initiative is a continuation of the comprehensive training we conducted last February. Today, we are here to ensure the strategic placement of AEDs, increasing the chance of successfully reviving anyone who experiences a cardiac emergency in our transport system.”

On behalf of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, Rear Admiral Tanseco expressed appreciation for the partnership:

“The Philippine Coast Guard has always served with heart, and we are deeply grateful to Bell-Kenz Pharma for strengthening our frontline capabilities through these life-saving devices. We have enhanced pre-departure inspections because lives matter and every second counts.”

This coordinated effort brought together key stakeholders—including DOTr-SAICT, PITX, EDSA Bus Carousel Consortia, One Ayala, and Bell-Kenz Pharma—all united in advancing a safer, more resilient, and people-centered transport system.

“ With flagship programs like Sagip CPR, Bell-Kenz Pharma is committed to empowering Filipinos with vital life-saving skills and tools, championing proactive healthcare at every step,” said Patrick Larraga.

By bridging training with action, the company reinforces its role as a committed Kaagapay in building a safer, healthier, and more responsive nation—ready to act decisively in medical emergencies.

For more information about Sagip CPR advocacy, visit www.bell-kenz.net.

Philippines Graphic
Philippines Graphichttps://philippinesgraphic.com.ph/
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.

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