The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Cordillera has strengthened its partnership with the Philippine Red Cross through the signing of a memorandum of agreement last month.
The agreement institutionalizes the regular blood donation activity with DSWD personnel.
“Our partnership with the Philippine Red Cross symbolizes our commitment in serving our communities. It is not just through the programs and services of the Department, but through our blood, we are willing to share to others a part of us,” DSWD Regional Director Leo L. Quintilla said.
Since 2021, the DSWD-CAR has been conducting blood-letting activities with its personnel as volunteer donors.
“Hindi kasi lahat ng tao ay may kakayanan na makapagbigay ng dugo, kaya naman dahil tayo ay pinahintulutan na gawin ito, naisipan kong mag-donate ng dugo,” Computer Maintenance Technologist Derreck Bengson said.
Through the agreement, the DSWD-CAR has established its blood service facilities intended solely for the use of the DSWD personnel. The PRC will also assist DSWD personnel who will need their services.
“This move is not just a means for us to extend help to those who are in need but also our way to assure our personnel that we are also looking into their health and wellbeing. We pray no one would have to request blood from the PRC, but this is a preemptive measure as this may save lives,” Quintilla added.
The MOA between DSWD-CAR and PRC was signed by PRC Baguio Chapter OIC Jennelyn Terre, Chairperson Atty. Carlos Canilao represented by Ryan Mang-usan; Quintilla, and Assistant Regional Director for Administration and Chief Administrative Officer Rina Claire Reyes.
The partnership will run through September 2024. – Nerizza Faye G. Villanueva-Trinidad
