As the Philippines prepares for potentially prolonged hot and dry conditions associated with El Niño, Bell-Kenz Pharma is bringing its Sagip CPR initiative to the City of Smiles to equip Negrenses with life-saving skills that could make the difference between life and death during a cardiac emergency.

With elevated temperatures posing additional risks to vulnerable populations, the campaign underscores a critical message: when a cardiac emergency strikes, knowing what to do  and how to respond in the first few minutes can help save a life.

Through Sagip CPR, Bell-Kenz aims to make life-saving knowledge more inclusive and accessible, encouraging communities to move beyond awareness and become active participants in emergency response.

The private-government initiative highlights the collaboration among Bell-Kenz Pharma, the Bacolod City Local Government Unit, DOJ-IACAT (Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking),

the Bacolod City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office, and the Philippine Coast Guard in advancing public health, inclusive community preparedness, and emergency response, particularly as communities adapt to climate-related challenges.

Protecting the people behind Bacolod’s growth

Bacolod City’s economy grew by 6.8 percent in 2025, ranking 3rd among the fastest-growing highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in the Philippines, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The City of Smiles has emerged as an important economic and tourism center in the Visayas, drawing visitors through its cultural attractions, culinary scene, festivals, and celebrated hospitality.

But sustaining this growth requires more than economic opportunity. It also means ensuring that communities, public spaces, and tourism destinations are prepared to respond when emergencies arise.

“Bacolod is known for its warmth, hospitality, and the smiles it extends to every visitor. Through Sagip CPR, we want to help strengthen that spirit of care by equipping Negrenses with the knowledge and confidence to respond when a life is at stake. As the city continues to welcome tourists and prepare for climate-related challenges, being emergency-ready is an important part of building safer, more resilient communities. Because true hospitality goes beyond making people feel welcome—it also means being ready to protect their lives,” said Patrick Larraga, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma.

A community equipped with basic life-saving knowledge can contribute to a stronger culture of safety for residents, workers, and visitors alike.  For the City of Smiles, which warmly welcomes tourists and hosts major public gatherings, Hands- Only CPR training can play a vital role in strengthening public safety, enhancing emergency preparedness, and reinforcing Bacolod’s readiness as a safe and welcoming destination.

Bell-Kenz Pharma’s engagement with Bacolod reflects the importance of building communities where people are not only aware of health risks but are also equipped with practical knowledge to respond when emergencies happen.

For more information about Bell-Kenz Sagip CPR, visit  https://www.bell-kenz.net/