By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Department of Tourism Region VI (DOT-6), in partnership with the Iloilo Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) Alliance, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Iloilo Chapter, and Festive Walk Iloilo, launched the inaugural “Let the Love Flow” bloodletting activity on Feb. 20 at the VIP Lounge of Festive Walk Mall.
The initiative, held in the spirit of the Valentine’s season, aimed to encourage voluntary blood donation. Organizers targeted 60 donors for the day-long event.
“This Valentine’s season, the best gift you can give isn’t roses or chocolates—it’s blood, a unique gift that can save lives,” PRC Iloilo Chapter Administrator Paul Gilbert Valderrama said during a press briefing.
He emphasized that the need for blood is unpredictable, making regular donations essential.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health (DOH) recommend that at least 1% of a country’s population donate blood to meet basic medical needs. However, even reaching this target does not guarantee a sufficient supply, as emergencies, accidents, and disease outbreaks can create sudden spikes in demand,” Valderrama explained.
In 2024, PRC Iloilo exceeded its target by collecting 31,000 blood units, supplying local hospitals and other PRC chapters in need.
DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez underscored the importance of partnerships in strengthening blood donation awareness.
“This is a convergence. There’s no limit to exploring partnerships across different sectors, and we also want to support the Red Cross in raising awareness,” she said.
She added that Iloilo’s growing tourism industry requires preparedness for medical emergencies.
“We are promoting Iloilo as a MICE destination, and with that comes the responsibility of ensuring we have resources ready for any situation,” she added.
Meanwhile, Iloilo MICE Alliance President Natalie U. Lim emphasized the significance of giving back to the community.
“Every minute in the community, we owe a second to give back. Donating blood takes only a few minutes, yet it can mean life for someone in need,” Lim said.
A regular blood donor for five years, Lim encouraged businesses to integrate community service into their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
“The Iloilo MICE Alliance isn’t just here to promote business; we are also committed to building and supporting our community. This blood donation activity is our way of giving back this love month,” she said, adding that she is open to making “Let the Love Flow” an annual event.
DONORS SHARE EXPERIENCES
Several participants shared their motivations for donating blood.
First-time donor Jeff Martin Escabilla, 24, said his decision was driven by a desire to help.
“I wanted to assist those in need. I was a little nervous, but it was fine,” he said.
Regular donor Ronnie Servidad, 42, highlighted both the personal and communal benefits of blood donation.
“Whenever my company holds a drive, I always participate. It feels like my blood is replenished, and I feel refreshed. This is my fourth time donating,” he said, encouraging others to donate if they are healthy and unafraid of needles.
Glera Irene Tayco, 33, who last donated in 2014, described the experience as rewarding.
“It’s a great feeling to know my blood can save lives. We also encourage our staff in our company to donate, but they must pass the necessary tests. It’s a big help for hospitals in need,” she said.
Eligible donors aged 18 to 60 in good health can also donate at the PRC Iloilo office. Organizations can coordinate donation drives via wvrdc@redcross.org.ph.
