‘Virtual Volunteer’ launched by PRC

A web platform, which aims to help overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), was launched yesterday by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) at PRC main office in Mandaluyong City.

Virtual Volunteer, developed by IBM, is an augmentation force of PRC in order to help more OFWs – whether in crisis management or processing documents. It uses geo-location features to track users who browse using computers of cellular phones, aiming to deliver efficient and timely aid to users.

The Philippines is the first country in Asia to launch the web platform.

“The number of migrant workers has become so significant. The problem has become so big that we have to start where we can win. Information is as vital as food, water, medicines, and clothes. Objective and timely information is something that migrants can lean on after leaving their homes and families,” PRC Chair. Richard Gordon said.

The platform, according to PRC, aims to give overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), migrants, or those considering migrating and their family members’ access to quality, objective information, and connects them with local support.

The web platform breaks language barrier as it offers translation of phrases, helping migrants communicate easier wherever they are.

Furthermore, the website features life support services like soup kitchens, showers, shelters, as well as medical services and hospitals. It also has a list of institutions that could help OFWs find legal assistance.

PRC said that people may visit the site at: www.virtualvolunteer.org.

The project was made possible by PRC in coordination with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

Virtual Volunteer was first launched in Geneva, PRC said.