Donating blood gives someone a chance: Sorsogon needs donors

By Benilda Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- “Donating blood gives someone a chance to live.” These powerful words from blood program coordinators set the tone for the launch of the blood donation campaign by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and the local chapter of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) on July 11.

This campaign, which kicked off in observance of National Blood Donors Month, aims to increase the province’s blood supply through a series of voluntary blood donation events.

During the event, Provincial Health Officer Renato Bolo Jr. commended various agencies and civic groups for their commitment over the years.

The campaign has always received support from various organizations, including the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Army, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), civic groups such as the Philippine Eagles, and other institutions.

“Our goal this year is to provide more than just what we need. This means that every Sorsogon resident in need of blood should be assured access to it, without having to reach out to multiple people in search of a blood donor,” Bolo said.

Bolo noted that the province is now consuming more blood than it collects.

Michael John Yuzon, the blood program coordinator for the Rural Health Unit in Gubat town, emphasized the significance of bloodletting in ensuring a steady supply of blood for patients with chronic illnesses.

“Especially now, with many undergoing dialysis and emergency procedures, having an adequate blood supply is crucial. Activities like this give people a chance to live,” he said.

Aileen Lopez, the vice president of PAMET Sorsogon, expressed her gratitude to the frontliners and volunteers who made the event possible.

“We are here to help and to thank our donors. Because of their continued generosity, many patients are given a chance to live,” she remarked.

She also reminded the public that one bag of blood can save up to three lives and encouraged individuals to overcome their fear of donating.

Major Arwin Destacamento, chief of the Police Community Affairs and Development Unit for Sorsogon province, noted that their participation exemplifies the spirit of unity behind the initiative.

“This is not just a one-time effort. With programs like ‘Dugong Agila, Dugong Pag-asa,’ we are committed to donating quarterly alongside the efforts of the Provincial Health Office and the City Health Office,” he said.

Among the donors was Clenton Jan Arcilla from the PNP Special Action Force (SAF), who stated that the donation drive aligns with their unit’s advocacy.

“This is part of our program within the PNP SAF to assist those in need of blood. It is our duty to serve the public, especially those who require this type of assistance,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of the activity, noting that initiatives like this benefit many individuals.

“Blood donation is all about willingness. If you truly have the desire to help, you will find fulfillment in giving blood,” he said.

The PHO reminds the public that healthy individuals aged 18 to 60 years, without serious medical conditions or maintenance medications, are encouraged to donate blood.

Under RA 7719 or the National Blood Services Act, blood donation is a humanitarian act that should be strongly promoted.

The observance of National Blood Donor Month serves as a reminder of the essential role that volunteer donors play in saving lives. (With a report from Bertuldo Jr. Bueza, PIA Bicol/Sorsogon)