ILOILO City – This “Love Month”, the true meaning of giving takes center stage as the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6, Philippine Red Cross (PRC) – Iloilo Chapter, Iloilo MICE Alliance, and Festive Walk Iloilo came together for a blood donation drive aimed at saving lives.
Held on Thursday, February 20, at the VIP Lounge of Festive Walk Iloilo, Iloilo Business Park in Mandurriao district, the event was aptly titled “Let the Love Flow.”
The drive underscored the idea that the most valuable gift one can give this Valentine’s Day isn’t chocolates or flowers, but blood – a simple act that has the potential to save lives in times of urgent need.
Organizers emphasized the importance of regular blood donations and fostering a culture of selfless giving within the community.
Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, director of DOT Region 6, highlighted the drive’s purpose of raising awareness about the life-saving impact of blood donation. While the region is not currently facing a critical shortage, she stressed the importance of being prepared to support other areas that might need blood, particularly in the face of health crises like dengue outbreaks.
Rodriguez, who is a regular blood donor herself, said, “Donating blood is not only a way to help others, but it also has health benefits for the donor. It’s a simple way to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, and I encourage everyone to participate.”
Iloilo MICE Alliance president Natalie U. Lim echoed Rodriguez’s sentiments, emphasizing that the act of donating blood requires just a few minutes, yet it could be the difference between life and death for someone in need.
“This is our chance to show love in the most impactful way possible,” Lim said, noting that the MICE Alliance’s support goes beyond promoting business, extending into community service initiatives like this one.
Gilbert Paul Valderrama, administrator of the PRC-Iloilo Chapter, reinforced the idea that the greatest gift one could offer this Valentine’s Day is the gift of life.
“Blood donation is the only gift that has the power to save a life, and that’s why it’s so important for us to encourage others to donate regularly,” Valderrama said.
The PRC-Iloilo Chapter continues to lead the country in blood collection efforts, a reflection of the community’s strong support for the organization’s mission.
Valderrama also pointed out that the strength of the Red Cross is directly linked to the strength of the community behind it.
“A strong Red Cross means a strong community,” he added.
The blood donation drive saw over 60 participants, including many walk-in donors, showing the community’s generosity and willingness to support life-saving causes. This event served as a powerful reminder that Love Month is not just about romantic gestures but about sharing love through acts that can make a real difference in the lives of others./PN
