ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) — Zamboanga City’s military and police personnel served beyond their call of duty by volunteering to donate blood during the Dugtong Buhay Movement bloodletting activity held recently at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)-Western Mindanao Command.
The joint initiative, which was spearheaded by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the AFP, aimed to boost the region’s blood supply.
The one-day event saw a significant turnout, with personnel from various units contributing to the noble cause. In total, 96 units of blood were collected, providing a substantial boost to local blood banks.
The Dugtong Buhay Movement, founded and led by DBM Secretary Amenah “Mina” Pangandaman, is a nationwide initiative designed to enhance blood donation efforts across the country.
Since its inception on August 15, 2024, and the official partnership with the PCG and the PRC on September 24, 2024, the movement has strived to bridge the gap between supply and demand, raising awareness and encouraging voluntary blood donation.
The Dugtong Buhay Movement has achieved notable success, accumulating over 3,200 bags of blood from activities held in 16 schools nationwide. It continues to expand its reach, with upcoming bloodletting drives planned in various regions.
DBM Secretary Pangandaman expressed her profound gratitude to the military and police personnel for their unwavering dedication to both national security and humanitarian causes.
“Our soldiers serve not only in defense and security but also in giving life and hope to fellow Filipinos. On the battlefield, no comrade is left behind—just as in blood donation, a quiet promise of brotherhood beyond the front lines,” she said.
Pangandaman further encouraged other government agencies and individuals to participate in the Dugtong Buhay Movement, emphasizing the life-saving impact of blood donation.
“It’s more than just a donation—it’s a priceless gift of life for those in need. The Dugtong Buhay Movement also spreads awareness because helping doesn’t end with giving blood,” she said. (EDT/JFT/PIA9-Zamboanga City)
