Cordillera to get safe blood donation from 34K locals

THE CORDILLERA region aims to get blood donation from at least two percent of its population this year to sustain the adequate supply of safe blood for those in need.

Department of Health (DOH)-Cordillera donor recruitment officer Lovella Ann Severo said the region aims to surpass the national goal of one percent.

Severo said this will ensure there will be enough supply of safe blood that is accessible to those in need in the whole region and to augment the need of nearby regions.

To ensure the safest possible blood supply, donors undergo a screening test, which is done with the help of other volunteers, she said.

According to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Cordillera’s website, the region has a population of 1.7 million and two percent is about 34,000.

“Last year, we already attained one percent total blood collection rate, but now we are aiming for at least two percent, despite the one percent target in the national level," Severo said.

She said 1.4 percent of the region’s total population has been reported as voluntary blood donors.

During the celebration of the 109th Baguio Charter Day, the regional donor recruitment office

and Philippine Red Cross, Baguio Chapter conducted a mobile donation drive at the Melvin Jones grandstand in Burnham Park.

One of those who donated during the event was Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Rolando Nana.

“We are introducing the culture of altruism. This is also to strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration, creating opportunities to donate and raising public awareness on the need for safe blood," Severo pointed out.

“We are aiming for an adequate, safe blood supply, and we are hoping that a lot of people will be encouraged to donate blood to save thousands of people, especially here in the region," she said.

A total of 45 blood bag units were collected during the event.

"We are encouraging local government units and the private sector to join the advocacy to donate blood to help others extend their lives," Severo said.