SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — In response to the growing demand for blood in the Ilocos Region, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) spearheaded the Dugtong Buhay Movement: Joint Bloodletting Program on Oct. 7 at the Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar, here.
The inter-agency initiative united donors and volunteers from both the public and private sectors, aiming to boost the supply of blood bags for patients in urgent need, particularly those battling dengue, undergoing dialysis, or receiving cancer treatments.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized that the event was launched to cultivate the spirit of volunteerism of every Filipino, highlighting the critical need for an “all-hands-on-deck” approach in life-saving efforts during crises, where every contribution makes a significant impact.
“We encourage all Filipinos to embrace the spirit of volunteerism. Donating blood is not only beneficial to those in need but also to the donors themselves, as it promotes healthy blood regeneration. The blood you give today could save lives tomorrow,” Pangandaman said.
The initiative also highlights the vital role that adequate blood supplies play in supporting health centers and hospitals in the region and across the country.
PRC La Union Chapter Chairman Ed Regala stated that the blood drive in La Union is timely, given the recent increase in patients requiring blood transfusions.
Regala reported that the initiative successfully collected approximately 129 blood bags from 129 generous donors by 11:00 a.m., driven by the contributions of partner government agencies, local government employees, and private sector participants.
“This initiative brings us one step closer to realizing our vision of meeting the blood needs of those who depend on it,” Regala said.
Jude Eivan Cavalita, a Philippine Navy (PN) personnel and blood donor, meanwhile shared that he chose to volunteer because of the meaningful impact his donation could have.
“This is my simple way of helping those in need. As the saying goes, it’s better to give than to receive,” Cavalita remarked.
The blood drive was conducted in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), PN, Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Provincial Government of La Union.
Individuals interested in participating in future bloodletting activities must meet specific eligibility criteria: they should be between 18 and 65 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds (50 kilograms), and be free from anemia.
Additionally, eligible donors should have a blood pressure range of 90-160 systolic and 60-100 diastolic, a hemoglobin level of at least 125 g/L, and a pulse rate between 50 to 100 beats per minute.
For more information on eligibility and participation, potential donors are encouraged to contact the Red Cross office or their local health centers. (MJTAB/CCMT, PIA La Union)
