The public is encouraged to donate blood during the holiday season as a humanitarian organization appealed for supplies in case of emergencies and other medical needs.
On December 19, a Reddit user shared a screenshot of a Facebook post from a publication reporting on an appeal by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).
“Blood donation,” the Redditor said in the “r/pinoy” community, claiming that there are now fewer blood donors.
The post also drew comments from other Reddit users, who shared their own experiences.
“I’ve donated blood regularly — [twice] a year before since RC comes to our office,” a Redditor commented.
“I want to go back to donating [twice] a year, it also helps us donors have some sort of ‘blood renewal’ and more importantly, giving to those who need it kahit hindi naman kamag-anak,” the Reddit user added.
“Donate blood na walang ine-expect na kapalit. I regularly donate blood sa Singapore Red Cross. Kakaibang fulfillment ‘yung alam ko na may matutulungan ang donation ko,” another Redditor wrote.
“I used to be a regular blood donor of RC, just like some of you, nung kami ‘yung nangailangan, may fees pa din at may instance na walang supply,” a different Reddit use sharedr.
“I donate blood before to Red Cross. When we had an emergency, Red Cross [didn’t] have a blood available, even [when] I have a Red Cross card as a donor,” another Redditor said.
Meanwhile, PRC Chairman Richard Gordon said that while the organization is not facing a blood shortage, sustaining adequate reserves during the holidays requires consistent public participation.
“Emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, and cancer treatments do not take a holiday, so we encourage Filipinos to keep blood donation in mind during this season of giving,” he was quoted as saying.
The organization said blood donations usually decline toward the end of the year as Filipinos prepare for the holiday season.
PRC Secretary General Gwen Pang noted that collections often stagnate or decrease from December through late January, even as hospitals continue to schedule surgeries and treat patients with ongoing medical needs.
“During the holiday season, many people travel, celebrate, and adjust their routines, which often means that fewer blood donors come forward,” Pang said.
“While the PRC has a stable blood supply, many patients schedule surgeries during this period,” she added, referring to the stretch from December through late January.
Pang said that blood collections usually “stagnate or decline” during those periods, yet the need for blood remains constant.
“By donating blood, we can offer someone the true gift of life this season,” she continued.
The PRC encouraged healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to donate blood at the nearest Red Cross blood donation center or through mobile blood drives.
Donors are advised to get enough rest, eat before donating and bring a valid ID.
