The Philippine Army (PA) has collected 44,500 cubic centimeters (cc) of blood (around 98 bags with 450 milliliters each bag) from its blood-letting drive held in connection with the upcoming 61st founding anniversary of its Headquarters and Headquarters Support Group (HHSG) on Wednesday.

Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a statement Wednesday night, said the activity was held at the Army General Hospital at PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

Military and civilian personnel of the unit spearheaded the blood-letting drive.

The HHSG, which will celebrate its founding anniversary on July 6, was established to provide administrative, security, ceremonial services, command activities, and service support to the PA.

“The blood-letting program aims to supplement the blood bank of the Department of Health-administered Rizal Medical Center in Pasig City,” he added.

Trinidad said this activity shows the dedication and commitment of soldiers to serve the people and save lives not just through combat operations but through a multitude of other ways as well.

The government promotes the humanitarian act of voluntary blood donation under Republic Act 7719, also known as the National Blood Services Act of 1994, to provide a sufficient supply of safe blood and to regulate blood banks. (PNA)