Byaheng Kaagapay, Byaheng Ligtas: DOTr and Bell-Kenz Pharma collaborate to bring life-saving CPR to transport frontliners

From Left to Right: Mr. Christian Emanuelle Bona, Dr. James Cayetano, Dr. Luis Raymond T. Go, Commodore Oliver Sy Tanseco, Mr. Patrick Larraga, Ms. Anna Leah Morales, Mr. RIchie Manuel, Ms. Brandy Ong, Ms. Sheilah Pascual Alvero

In a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen public safety, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has partnered with Bell-Kenz Pharma to integrate hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training into the country’s transport network. The collaboration aims to equip frontline transport personnel with the skills to act decisively in life-threatening cardiac emergencies.

Bell-Kenz Pharma’s Sagip CPR program, anchored on the theme “Byaheng Kaagapay, Byaheng Ligtas” provides training in Hands-only CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), empowering Filipino frontliners—including drivers, security personnel, and transport enforcers—to respond effectively when cardiac emergencies occur. The program emphasizes that the first few critical minutes can determine a patient’s chance of survival.

Dr. Luis Raymond T. Go, Medical Director of Bell-Kenz Pharma, highlighted the urgency of immediate intervention:

“When someone suddenly collapses, the first minutes are decisive. Every minute without CPR decreases the likelihood of survival. Through this program, we aim to improve

outcomes for people who may collapse unexpectedly—whether drivers, security personnel, or commuters. We are committed to collaboration with schools, government agencies, and communities, and we are grateful to Dr. James Cayetano for leading this effort. Together, we hope to make a tangible difference in public safety and give more people a chance at life.”

Bell-Kenz Pharma Medical Director Dr. Luis Raymond T. Go and Commodore Oliver Sy Tanseco, Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation Commander (DOTr-SAICT)

The partnership was formalized during a coordination meeting held at The Westin Manila, with the DOTr’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTR-SAICT). The initial phase of the program will include the training of the 400-member SAICT enforcement team, who serve around the clock across major transport corridors.

In a message delivered on behalf of Assistant Secretary Jose F. Lim IV, the DOTr emphasized the shared commitment to public safety. Anna Leah Poteet Morales, DOTr-SAICT Communication Lead, “This initiative aligns with our mandate to ensure a transport system that genuinely protects the Filipino people. Your advocacy highlights a crucial truth: in crowded buses, terminals, and transport hubs, the first responders are not ambulances but trained personnel already present on site. Equipping our frontliners with CPR certification is not just an additional skill—it is a transformational step toward safeguarding the commuting public. Together with Bell-Kenz Pharma, we aim to create a sustainable and impactful program that strengthens the readiness of all frontline transport personnel.”

Richie Manuel, Chief Operating Officer of Baclaran Metro Link, expressed strong support for the initiative, citing a tragic incident that highlighted the need for immediate emergency response:

“Before this program, one of our drivers suffered a heart attack while on duty. He was able to stop the bus, but without CPR, it took 15 minutes for the ambulance to arrive, and unfortunately, he did not survive. This program addresses exactly that gap, and we are eager to support it in every way possible.”

Echoing this sentiment, Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Relations Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma, emphasized the broader impact of embedding life-saving skills within the transport sector:

“Transport frontliners are the first line of defense in emergencies. By positioning them as Kaagapay, we ensure that life-saving readiness reaches the very heart of daily commuting. This program brings tangible protection to millions of Filipinos and strengthens our vision of a safer, more prepared nation.”

Dr. James Cayetano, President of the Bell-Kenz Foundation expressed gratitude ““we are truly thankful for this partnership as we work together to make our nation CPR-ready.”

Following the Metro Manila rollout, the Sagip CPR initiative will expand to include regional transport hubs, bus operators, and terminal personnel, continuing to promote the mission of Byaheng Kaagapay, Byaheng Ligtas—making commuting safer and reinforcing a culture of emergency preparedness across the Philippines.

About Bell-Kenz Pharma:

Bell-Kenz Pharma is a Filipino-owned pharmaceutical company dedicated to providing high-quality yet affordable healthcare solutions. Its "Sagip CPR" advocacy is a nationwide campaign to train 1 million Filipinos in Hands-Only CPR. For more information, contact Paula San Esteban at paula.sanesteban@bellkenzpharma.com or visit www.bell-kenz.net.

Follow @bellkenzpharma on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok for updates on our advocacy and initiatives.