Local first aider trained in World Rugby's First Aid In Rugby (FAIR) applies knowledge in heroic effort

Timothy Kong, 3rd row standing, leftmost

Manila, Philippines - A local first aider who was certified in the World Rugby Training & Education Superweek First Aid In Rugby (FAIR) course in July of this year found himself in a situation wherein he needed to apply his knowledge into action: He needed to save a man's life.

Timothy Kong, a former Board Trustee and Philippine Volcano, had just finished playing a friendly game of rugby against a touring Japanese team when the incident occurred. Alerted by a bystander, former Philippine Volcano and Board Trustee, Maxwell "Chicken" Stewart, announced medical aid was required for the sporting community that had booked the field after the rugby game. Kongy, as Timothy is fondly known by the rugby community, made no hesitations to help.

Kongy, along with Stewart and former army medic and Philippine Volcano Jerry Echter, took the responsibility to provide critical first aid to the downed individual until paramedics arrived. Drawing on his recent FAIR certification and previous training in the Australian Army Cadet Corps, Kongy quickly assessed the condition of the individual and immediately began chest compressions and mouth to mouth resuscitation. Kongy, with the assistance of Jerry, continued to provide CPR for approximately 30 minutes until they successfully revived the individual's breathing and heartbeat. Meanwhile, Stewart ensured crowd was controlled and medical response team was contacted. 

"I cannot stress enough the importance of being educated in first aid. When needed, that knowledge will make a world of difference. Not only could you help a stranger but you could save the life of a teammate", says Kongy.

"The Philippine Rugby community is proud of the efforts of these 3 gentlemen. This is also a testament of the value of the World Rugby Training & Education program, which can be applied not just on the field but also off the field. Kongy was a very good student of the course and I am sure that his World Rugby Trainer, Steph Yee, is proud of him as well', added Acee San Juan - General Manager of Philippine Rugby.

Philippine Rugby Football Union regularly organizes World Rugby Training & Education courses all year round. The 2023 T&E calendar will be published soon. If you are interested to take part on any of the courses (Coaching, Match Officiating, Strength & Conditioning, and First Aid In Rugby), send an email to [email protected].

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