Commuters passing through the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) can now expect an added layer of safety following the ceremonial turnover of life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) led by Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., in partnership with the Department of Transportation–Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT).
The initiative, held March 23 at PITX, forms part of Bell-Kenz Pharma’s Sagip CPR program, which promotes emergency preparedness in public spaces. Three AED units were turned over during the ceremony, with two units designated for PITX and one for DOTr-SAICT, along with training sessions for transport personnel on proper AED management and emergency response.
The deployment supports Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2026, an effort aimed at ensuring safer travel for millions of commuters, particularly during peak travel periods such as the upcoming Holy Week. With PITX serving thousands of passengers daily, the availability of AEDs provides immediate access to life-saving equipment during cardiac emergencies.
An AED is a portable device used to help restore a person’s heartbeat during sudden cardiac arrest. Designed for use even by trained non-medical responders, the device analyzes heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock when necessary. Quick access to AEDs, paired with CPR, can significantly improve survival chances while waiting for medical professionals.
The turnover also builds on a previous large-scale training conducted at PITX in February, where more than 800 transport personnel—including drivers, conductors, terminal staff, security personnel, and members of the Philippine Coast Guard—were trained in Hands-Only CPR, proper AED use, and emergency response protocols. The activity aimed to transform transport workers into first responders capable of assisting passengers during emergencies.
“Every heartbeat matters, especially on the move,” representatives from Bell-Kenz Pharma shared, emphasizing the importance of equipping transport frontliners with both life-saving devices and the knowledge to use them effectively.
Through the partnership, PITX strengthens its existing safety measures while promoting awareness on emergency preparedness within the community. The initiative highlights the growing role of transport hubs not only as centers of mobility, but also as safer public spaces ready to respond when emergencies happen.
Organizers hope the program will encourage similar efforts in other terminals and public areas, ensuring that more communities have access to immediate life-saving support when it matters most.
