The Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol) appealed for voluntary blood donors Thursday, citing rising demand and a low regional supply at the start of the year.
Nicole Ann Bejo, blood donor recruitment officer for the Bicol South Luzon Sub-National Reference Laboratory, said the center aims to collect 34,809 blood units in 2026 to serve Albay, Masbate, Catanduanes, and Sorsogon.
“Please consider donating blood, as many patients depend on it daily. Imagine needing it yourself and finding the blood supply at centers or facilities insufficient. Your donation can help maintain an adequate supply,” Bejo said in a press conference.
She noted that collections are typically lower in the first quarter and that Mayon Volcano’s unrest has halted mobile blood drives in affected areas. The center is coordinating to hold donations in evacuation centers pending approval.
Eligible donors are aged 18 to 60, weigh at least 50 kg., and are in good health. All donated blood is screened for infectious diseases. (PNA)
