DepEd will collect P35 for Red Cross

The Department of Education will collect contributions of P35 per year, on a voluntary basis, from school chapters as it encourages educational institutions and its offices to support this year's fund drive of the Philippine National Red Cross.

Contributions will be collected from Red Cross school chapters that will be officially accredited with the Red Cross Youth.

This will entitle the member to a P12,000 accidental, death, disablement and dismemberment benefit; a P5,000 accidental medical reimbursement and a P5,000 burial benefit as a result of the accident. Aside from these benefits, the member will also get P12,000 murder or unprovoked assault benefit and a P150/day hospital daily cash benefit, maximum of 60 days, due to accident or sickness.

Member-elementary and secondary educational institutions will organize Red Cross councils in accordance with the guidelines of the Philippine National Red Cross.

However, the DepEd said that collections can be made anytime during the year including the enrollment period provided that payment of such contributions is on a voluntary basis. Earlier, the DepEd issued an order asking all schools to make contributions on a voluntary basis and not as a requirement for admission of students.

This was issued to deal with numerous complaints that some schools are reportedly making contributions compulsory among students. - Jasmin R. Uy