March 29, 2024

BONTOC, Mountain Province – The local government is asking the public to donate blood to help save lives.

The LGU, through the Municipal Health Office in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross- Mountain Province, will spearhead a bloodletting activity on June 21 at the Bontoc Municipal Capitol as part of the celebration of World Blood Donor Day. 

Mayor Franklin Odsey in Memorandum Order 17-2022, enjoined the public to participate in the activity and donate blood. 

He said the bloodletting drive aims to ensure the availability of safe, quality, and accessible blood supply for those who need it, especially those who are confined, those undergoing dialysis, and those affected by emergencies. 

The mayor said the yearly reports received by his office from health facilities show the Bontoc constituents are the primary users of blood from hospitals within Mountain Province, thus, it is proper to take part in the bloodletting activity to replenish the blood used.

“Giving blood is giving the most precious gift to another person; the gift that will extend the life of the sick. The blood which you will donate shall be of great help to those who need it,” Odsey added. 

According to the website of the Department of Health-Cordillera, donating or giving blood has health benefits: It reduces the risk of heart and liver diseases, lowers the risk of cancer, develops new blood cells, maintains body weight, lowers cholesterol levels, and improves mental well-being. 

When a donor donates blood, approximately one pint or 450 to 500 milliliters is collected. For a platelet donation, the amount collected depends on the donor’s height, weight, and platelet count if collected through Apheresis or about 50 to 70 milliliters for random donor platelet concentrate.

After donating blood, the volume of fluids will adjust within a few hours from the donation. The red blood cells will be replaced within a few weeks, while platelets and plasma replenish more quickly.

The DOH, however, warned that individuals who have the following conditions are not allowed to donate blood: cancer, cardiac disease, severe lung disease, Hepatitis B and C, HIV infection, AIDS, STD, unexplained weight loss of more than five kilos over six months, and chronic alcoholism. 

The World Blood Donor Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness of the importance of blood donation and to recognize the contribution of voluntary unpaid blood donors in saving lives and improving health. – Alpine Killa-Malwagay