Bell-Kenz Brings Life-Saving CPR Training to Bacolod Communities

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — As the threat of El Niño raises concerns over prolonged heat and its potential impact on public health, Bell-Kenz Pharma is strengthening community preparedness through its Sagip CPR initiative, bringing essential life-saving knowledge to residents of Bacolod City and neighboring communities in Negros Occidental.

The program promotes Hands-Only Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), an emergency response technique that can help sustain blood circulation when a person experiences sudden cardiac arrest while professional medical assistance is on the way.

With rising temperatures potentially increasing health risks, particularly among vulnerable individuals, the initiative emphasizes the importance of immediate action during medical emergencies. Every second matters, and a community equipped with basic emergency response skills can make a significant difference.

Through Sagip CPR, Bell-Kenz Pharma seeks to transform ordinary citizens into confident first responders by making practical life-saving education accessible to more Filipinos.

The initiative brings together Bell-Kenz Pharma, the Bacolod City Local Government Unit, the Department of Justice–Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (DOJ-IACAT), the Bacolod City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

Their collaboration demonstrates how partnerships between government institutions and private organizations can strengthen public safety, promote inclusivity, and encourage greater community participation in emergency preparedness.

Beyond its health advocacy, the campaign also supports Bacolod’s continuing development as an economic and tourism destination.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Bacolod recorded 6.8 percent economic growth in 2025, placing it third among the country’s fastest-growing highly urbanized cities.

As more businesses, tourists, and public activities contribute to the city’s progress, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors becomes increasingly important.

Patrick Larraga, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma, emphasized that genuine hospitality also involves protecting people’s well-being.

“Because true hospitality goes beyond making people feel welcome—it also means being ready to protect their lives,” Larraga said.

For a city celebrated for its vibrant festivals, cultural heritage, culinary attractions, and welcoming communities, emergency preparedness adds another dimension to its reputation as the City of Smiles.

By encouraging residents, workers, and community stakeholders to learn Hands-Only CPR, Bell-Kenz hopes to establish a stronger culture of responsibility, awareness, and readiness.

A Call to Action: Be Ready to Save a Life

A cardiac emergency can happen anywhere—at home, in the workplace, in a crowded festival, or even during an ordinary family gathering. The person who needs help could be a loved one, a friend, a colleague, or a complete stranger.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens before learning what to do. Take the initiative to learn Hands-Only CPR, encourage your family and coworkers to get trained, and help spread life-saving awareness throughout your community.

If you witness a suspected cardiac arrest, immediately call for emergency assistance and follow your CPR training or the emergency dispatcher’s instructions.

Your two hands could be someone’s second chance at life. Learn CPR today, share the knowledge, and become part of a community that is ready to act when every second counts.

To learn more about Bell-Kenz Sagip CPR and its life-saving advocacy, visit https://www.bell-kenz.net/.