Bell-Kenz expands CPR drive to major transport hub

Sagip CPR, the flagship advocacy of Bell-Kenz Pharma, expanded its nationwide campaign to train one million Filipinos in Hands-Only CPR by conducting a hands-on training session for transport frontliners at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.

The training was held at Offix 3 in PITX in partnership with the Department of Transportation – Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation and other stakeholders. Bus drivers, conductors and transport enforcers participated in practical instruction on hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The move marks the campaign’s expansion into major transport hubs, focusing on high-traffic areas where professional medical care may not always be immediately accessible.

Sagip CPR aims to equip ordinary citizens with basic life support skills, particularly in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.

“Our goal is to build a nationwide network of everyday lifesavers,” said Patrick Larraga, head of corporate branding and public affairs of Bell-Kenz Pharma. “By training transport frontliners—especially those assigned along major commuter routes like EDSA—we ensure that in moments of emergency, intervention can begin even before medical professionals arrive.”

Larraga said the campaign initially focused on senior high school students to maximize what he described as the “multiplier effect” of youth engagement. More than 18 institutions have been reached through nationwide school activations, in line with the legal mandate to integrate CPR training into the K to 12 curriculum.

He cited data showing that eight out of 10 cardiac arrests occur outside hospital settings, often at home, underscoring the need for broader public training.

Dr. Luis Raymond T. Go, medical director of Bell-Kenz Pharma, said the expansion to transport hubs forms part of the company’s broader Kaagapay Project and its GPCPR initiative.

“While we are committed to providing affordable and high-quality medicines, we also recognize our responsibility toward public safety,” Dr. Go said. “More than a million Filipinos pass through transport systems daily. Strengthening preparedness among enforcers, drivers, and conductors can significantly improve outcomes during cardiac-related emergencies.”

He noted that only about two in 10 Filipinos currently know how to perform CPR, and that survival rates decline dramatically within minutes without intervention. When combined with the use of an automated external defibrillator, CPR can significantly improve survival chances.

“With peak travel seasons like Holy Week, when millions are on the move, having trained responders on-site provides an added layer of security for commuters,” Dr. Go added.

Dr. James Cayetano, president of the Bell-Kenz Pharma Foundation, described the initiative as a long-term public health strategy.

“Millions pass through transport hubs every day. Training those who are already on the ground—drivers, conductors, enforcers—ensures that help is available in those first crucial minutes,” Cayetano said.

The foundation has trained between 8,000 and 9,000 students nationwide and continues to expand the program in partnership with government agencies and private organizations.

Organizers said the campaign aims to foster a culture of readiness, empowering ordinary citizens to act decisively in emergencies as Sagip CPR works toward its one-million trainee target.