Multisectoral groups have joined with government organizations in forming an initiative to train cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to residents here.

Cardiologist Dr. James Cayetano, head of Bell-Kenz Foundation, said the “Sagip CPR” supports Proclamation No. 511, which declares July 17 as National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Day.

“That is why several organizations have taken the initiative to provide basic hands-only CPR training,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

He said data show only two in 10 Filipinos know how to perform CPR.

Cayetano said Sagip CPR is suitable for all ages and uses psychomotor skills, allowing kids to practice it physically.

He said students from Grades 5 to 12 are already capable of learning the life-saving skill.

The program is supported by the Philippine Heart Association, Northwestern Mindanao, PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College with its city scholars organization, Cagayan de Oro City Police Office, and City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Department. (PNA)