In collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP), the DBM extends the life-saving blood donation initiative directly to the youth at iACADEMY.

 

During her opening remarks, Secretary Mina addressed the low participation rates of youth in blood donation and urged for more active involvement. “As we donate blood today, let’s make this a regular part of our lives. Let's bridge this gap by not only participating ourselves but by encouraging our friends, families, and colleagues to join us in this crucial act of service,” she stated.

 

The advocacy aims to collect blood donations from the specified partners, which are expected to aid those in need, especially those with illnesses and conditions that require transfusions. According to the latest data of the Department of Health, almost 270,000 dengue cases were reported as of October this year. (https://doh.gov.ph/press-release/doh-dengue-cases-lower-in-recent-weeks/)

 

“This event marks the first time the Dugtong Buhay Movement has partnered with a private academic institution in such a direct and impactful way… We are setting a precedent for how public-private sector partnerships can function as powerful catalysts for community health and engagement,” explained Secretary Pangandaman, highlighting the growing importance of integrating private partners in nationwide health efforts.

 

Meanwhile, PRC Secretary General Gwen Pang expressed gratitude towards DBM, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of the Department of Budget and Management’s support in making this event possible. Your collaboration has significantly expanded our reach and enabled us to provide essential services to more communities. Since our partnership with DBM began in 2024, blood donations have positively impacted the lives of 518 patients through activities on August 15, September 24, and October 8.”

 

Chairman and CEO of iACADEMY, Dr. Vanessa Tanco underscored the movement's contribution to community solidarity and mutual objectives. “The Dugtong Buhay Movement exemplifies a spirit of unity and shared purpose that we, at iACADEMY, believe is essential in building a brighter, healthier, and more resilient future for the Philippines,” she added.

 

Heads of partner organizations who attended the blood activity included PNP Southern Police District Director PBGEN Bernard R. Yang, Civil Relations Service Philippine Coast Guard Commander Commo Teotimo R. Borja Jr., PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn T. Pang, iACADEMY Chairman and CEO Dr. Vanessa L. Tanco, and iACADEMY President and COO Raquel P. Wong.

 

Also present were DBM senior officials, including Undersecretaries Wilford Wong, Jojit Basilio, Leo Larcia, Maria Francesca Del Rosario, and Goddes Libiran, as well as Assistant Secretaries Bodie Pulido, and Diana Camacho.

 

A total of 280 bags/units of blood were collected from donors from the PCG, PNP, and iACADEMY.

 

The effort is consistent with Republic Act 7719, the National Blood Services Act of 1994, which advocates for voluntary blood donations to maintain a safe and adequate blood supply.