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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Start the New Year by saving lives: Philippine Red Cross urges blood donations

Start the New Year by saving lives: Philippine Red Cross urges blood donations

Published Jan 6, 2026 02:32 pm
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) ramps up its campaign for blood donation. (Photo from PRC)
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) ramps up its campaign for blood donation. (Photo from PRC)
As the Philippines ushers in the New Year, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) called on the public to turn goodwill into action by donating blood and giving patients a new lease on life.
While holiday festivities may be over, the demand for blood remains constant, PRC said.
PRC noted that hospitals across the country rely on a steady supply for surgeries, childbirth, emergencies, and life-saving treatments such as cancer care and dialysis. However, blood donations often dip during the post-holiday period, creating the annual “lean months” when supplies run low.
PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard J. Gordon, in a statement issued January 5, highlighted the importance of starting the year with generosity.
“The New Year is a time for fresh starts and renewed hope. By donating blood, we are giving patients a second chance at life,” Gordon said. “Blood is needed every single day, and this simple act of compassion can make the difference between life and death,” he added.
PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang, meanwhile, added that walk-in donors are especially crucial during this period.
“Even as the year changes, the need for blood does not. Patients continue to undergo surgeries, mothers give birth, and emergencies can happen without warning,” Pang said. “Donating blood at the start of the year is a powerful way to turn goodwill and compassion into action that saves lives,” she added.
With 110 blood service facilities nationwide, the PRC encourages healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to donate at their nearest blood donation center or during scheduled mobile blood drives.
Donors are advised to eat well, rest, and bring a valid ID before giving blood.
PRC stressed that every blood donation can save up to three lives, from accident victims and surgical patients to individuals battling cancer or chronic illnesses.
(Photo from PRC)
(Photo from PRC)
Beyond helping others, PRC noted that donating blood also benefits the donor by regulating iron levels, stimulating new blood cell production, and offering a quick health check.
Alongside its appeal, PRC reminded the public that blood cannot be manufactured—it can only come from generous donors.
For updates on blood donation sites and mobile blood drives, the public may follow the Philippine Red Cross on its official social media channels or contact the nearest PRC chapter. For emergencies, call the PRC Hotline 143.
To schedule a donation, visit https://redcross.org.ph/give-blood/

Related Tags

Donation in the Philippines Philippine Red Cross donate blood today save lives blood drive post-holiday blood shortage PRC
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