ILOILO City – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is calling for a sustained commitment to blood donation in Iloilo, urging individuals and organizations to contribute not just during peak periods but throughout the year.
Dr. Carlo Carado, manager of PRC Iloilo Chapter’s Western Visayas Regional Blood Center, noted that while Iloilo has been able to meet its annual blood supply target, donation efforts tend to decline at certain times of the year, particularly in January due to holiday festivities.
“As of now, we are still supplying the 26 hospitals here in the province of Iloilo with the mobile blood donation activities that we have during the January period,” Carado said.
However, he emphasized the importance of consistent blood donation drives to avoid shortages, especially when demand fluctuates.
While no fixed monthly quota exists due to varying patient needs, PRC aims to collect at least 25,000 blood units annually to ensure an adequate supply for Iloilo. Thanks to community and institutional support, they exceeded this goal in 2024, collecting 31,000 units.
“Mostly, the bulk of our requests are from hospitals, our OB (obstetrics) patients, and surgical patients. Every day, we receive requests from them,” Carado added.
To maintain a steady blood supply, the PRC encourages groups to organize at least two mobile blood donation activities per year.
Individuals can also donate by visiting the PRC office. Donors must be between 18 to 60 years old, physically fit, well-rested, and in good health.
Organizations and individuals interested in contributing to this life-saving cause may coordinate with PRC donor recruitment officers or email wvrdc@redcross.org.ph for scheduling./PN
