Hundreds of donors and volunteers gathered at the Naval Station, Ernesto Ogbinar, Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union, for the latest leg of the Dugtong Buhay Movement bloodletting activity.

 

Spearheaded by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman, the event exemplified the bayanihan spirit, where every drop of blood became a symbol of hope and healing for Filipinos in need.

 

In her Keynote Message, Secretary Pangandaman shared her excitement about visiting La Union for the first time, noting the vibrancy of the province and its appeal to the youth. Beyond the beauty of the province, the Budget Secretary underscored the deeper purpose of the gathering: to save lives.

 

"Today, we are united in one profound mission — to save lives through the noble act of blood donation," she said.

 

Her address emphasized the transformative impact of collaboration, volunteerism, and compassion. "Every drop of blood we collect today is a testament to our shared humanity, a lifeline for those battling with illness, injury, or the unforeseen challenges of life. Through our collective efforts, we give hope and offer strength to those in need," Secretary Mina remarked.

 

The DBM Secretary also lauded the efforts of everyone involved, from volunteers to partner agencies, and emphasized the significance of compassion in their shared mission. "Compassion allows us to see beyond ourselves, to empathize with the struggles of others, and to respond with kindness and urgency. Behind every request for blood is a fellow Filipino — it could be a parent, a child, or a friend — whose life we may be able to extend through our donations," she reflected.

 

She closed her speech with a call to action, urging everyone to continue embracing the value of collaboration. "Together, we can save lives. Together, we can spread kindness that resonates far beyond today," Sec. Mina concluded.

 

The Dugtong Buhay Movement, composed of the DBM, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine Red Cross, was joined by volunteers from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Air Force, and the Provincial Government of La Union.

 

It was made possible through the support of La Union OIC Vice Governor Chary Nisce, North Western Luzon PCG Commander Capt. Mark Larsen Mariano, PNP Regional Director BGen. Lou Evangelista, Northern Luzon Naval Forces Deputy Commander Col. Larry Batalla, PAF Wing Commander of 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing BGen Ronie Petinglay, and PRC Chapter Chairman Eduardo Regala.

 

With over 208,000 dengue cases reported by the Department of Health this year and the increase in the number of diseases that require blood for treatment, the upward trend underscores the urgent need for blood donation drives.

 

The initiative likewise aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas directive by President Ferdinand R. Marcos to assist those in need, especially during crises. It adheres to RA 7719, promoting voluntary blood donation for a safe and adequate blood supply.