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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Philippine Red Cross warns against 'overpriced' blood processing fees

Philippine Red Cross warns against 'overpriced' blood processing fees

PRC Chairman Gordon flags 'excessive' blood processing fees in some private hospitals, affirms commitment to affordable blood services

Published Feb 6, 2026 08:06 pm
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon (left) emphasized the need for ethical and affordable blood processing fees during the 4th National Council on Blood Services meeting with the DOH, led by Secretary Ted Herbosa (right). Photo from PRC
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon (left) emphasized the need for ethical and affordable blood processing fees during the 4th National Council on Blood Services meeting with the DOH, led by Secretary Ted Herbosa (right). Photo from PRC
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) cautioned hospitals against excessive blood processing charges, with PRC Chairman Richard Gordon flagging reports of possible overpricing in some private facilities and stressing the organization’s commitment to affordable blood services.
In a statement issued on Friday, February 6, the PRC warned hospitals against imposing excessive blood processing fees, as Gordon raised concerns over reports of overcharging in private medical facilities.
Gordon voiced these concerns during the 4th National Council on Blood Services (NCBS) meeting with the Department of Health (DOH), citing instances of hospitals charging far beyond regulated fees.
The PRC has long maintained its blood processing fees in line with DOH Administrative Orders to ensure that blood remains affordable, accessible, and safe for patients.
However, Gordon noted that some hospitals reportedly conduct additional tests that drive total charges as high as P10,000 — far beyond the regulated amount.
“When we give patients blood, some hospitals conduct additional tests that accumulate charges, sometimes exceeding allowable fees and reaching amounts as high as P10,000,” Gordon said.
The Red Cross, he added, has done its part to ensure that all blood distributed is safe. “These fees are unconscionable,” Gordon said. “We do not seek profit from blood; we follow all procedures set by the DOH,” he added. 
Meanwhile, DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa echoed Gordon’s concerns, emphasizing that legal regulations on blood fees apply to all healthcare facilities.
He proposed establishing a dedicated complaint center for patients to report suspected overpricing or irregularities in blood services, according to the PRC.
Given this, the PRC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the DOH, hospitals, and other stakeholders to ensure that blood services remain ethical, transparent, and aligned with national policies, while continuing to save lives without discrimination. 

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