In a press conference of the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) on April 2, 2025, Ms. Nicole Anne Bejo, Regional Donor Recruitment Officer, National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP), encouraged individuals to become voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors to maintain the blood supply in the region and help save lives.
According to Ms. Bejo, one (1) blood donation can save up to three (3) lives. Blood donation is used for transfusions that can help in the management of patients involved in trauma and road accidents, obstetrics, orthopedic and surgical procedures, patients with anemia, cancer patients and blood diseases, and other medical problems (heart, liver, kidney).
Individuals who are eligible for blood donation are those who are 18-60 years old, 16-17 years old with parental consent, and 60-65 years old for regular donors. The weight requirement is 50 kilograms and above.
Pregnant women, individuals with fever, cough, colds, tattoo or body piercing not more than 1 year, and those with history of medical operation are temporarily deferred.
Ms. Bejo reminded interested donors to have at least eight ( hours of sleep and rest and ensure that they have eaten (avoid fatty foods).
The DOH Bicol CHD encourages the public to visit the blood donation sites at Bicol South Luzon Sub National Reference Laboratory (BSL SNRL) and Bicol Medical Center (BMC) to #DonateBloodSaveLives.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD