QuestionsQuestions (Republic Act No. 95)
Republic Act No. 95, approved on March 22, 1947.
It is created as a body corporate and politic—i.e., a corporate entity with perpetual succession and the capacity to sue and be sued.
At the National Capital of the Republic of the Philippines.
A red Greek cross on a white ground. RA 95 expressly states it is not, and shall not be construed as, a religious symbol, and must have equal efficacy for persons of all faiths.
It shall have jurisdiction over the entire territory of the Philippines.
The Geneva Red Cross Convention (Convention of Geneva of July 29, 1929 for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick of Armies in the Field), to which the Philippines adhered on February 14, 1947.
Among others: (1) furnish volunteer aid to the sick and wounded of armed forces in time of war consistent with the Geneva Convention; (2) perform duties devolving from the Philippines’ adherence; (3) act in voluntary relief and as a communication medium with the Armed Forces; (4) establish and maintain a relief system for peace and war and respond to emergencies caused by natural disasters; and (5) devise other services improving health, safety, and welfare, without infringing government functions.
All adult population in the Philippines.
Any contribution to the Philippine National Red Cross Annual Fund Campaign entitles the individual to membership for one year.
A total of 30 members: 6 appointed by the President, 15 elected by Chapter delegates in an Annual Meeting, and 9 selected by the 21 already chosen.
Each member serves a three-year term. A member who served two consecutive full three-year terms becomes ineligible for at least two years.
The initial 6 appointed, 15 elected, and 9 selected divide by lot into three groups equal in number, with terms expiring after 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years, so that thereafter one-third are chosen each year.
Vacancies due to death or resignation are filled by election by the Board of Governors at its next meeting. Vacancies among Presidential appointees are filled by the President.
The President of the Philippines is the Honorary President. Officers consist of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Councilor—elected by the Board of Governors from among its membership.
Primarily through contributions obtained through personal solicitation campaigns organized by the Board of Governors and conducted by Chapters, independently of other fund drives.
It is unlawful to solicit, collect, or receive money/material/property falsely representing oneself as a member/agent/representative of the Philippine National Red Cross, or to wear/display the Red Cross sign/insignia for fraudulent purposes. The law also reserves the name “Red Cross” and the red Greek cross emblem exclusively to the Philippine National Red Cross (and reserves use of the emblem for the medical services of the Armed Forces as specified in Article 28 of the Geneva Convention).
Upon conviction: fine not more than ₱1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year per offense, at the discretion of the court. If committed by a corporation/association, the penalty devolves on the president, director, or responsible officer.
At the end of every calendar year, it must submit to the President an annual report of activities and a clear statement of its exact financial condition, sources of receipts, and purposes of disbursements.