PIA Press Release Wednesday, January 18, 2012 Red Cross launches hygiene, sanitation transformation driveby Larry Lopez TABUK, Kalinga, Jan. 18 (PIA) -- Because of pressing health problems related to hygiene and sanitation, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is spearheading a transformation drive in remote barangays where cases are high. The national program will be carried out in the provinces of Cagayan, Catanduanes, Kalinga and Ilocos Norte. In Kalinga, the transformation drive has targeted the four barangays of Anonang in Rizal, Bangad of Tinglayan and Dilag and Lanna of Tabuk. The PRC trained project facilitators from target barangays on Participative Hygiene & Sanitation Transformation who would be assigned to lead in the campaigns in their respective areas. Red Cross Kalinga Chapter Head Glorina Diaz said four facilitators will be assigned to Anonang, three in Dilag, two in Lanna and the other two in Bangad. The six-month project started last December and aims to cover all target areas by May in time for the start of the rainy season when water-borne diseases are prevalent, Diaz said. Water-borne diseases commonly associated with problems on hygiene and sanitation like diarrhea, typhoid fever and gastro-entiritis. This health concern was included into the services of Red Cross under its “Saving Lives” prime objective as humanitarian world organization, Diaz elaborated. She said Red Cross has a tie-up with the Department of Health on the project and has been assured of full support from the International Federation of the Red Cross. (JDP/LL- PIA CAR,Kalinga) |