BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

As the rainy season brings a rise in dengue cases, hospitals and health institutions are calling on the public to help maintain a stable blood supply.

But how can one actually donate blood?

Recently, hospitals like Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), Makati Medical Center, and the Philippine Red Cross appealed for more blood donations, citing low supply levels in blood banks.

This call for donors aligns with the celebration of National Blood Donor Month this July, an initiative that honors voluntary blood donors, raises awareness on the importance of regular blood donation, and encourages more people to become “dugong bayani,” or lifesaving donors.

The observance began through Republic Act No. 7719, also known as the National Blood Services Act of 1994, which was signed into law to promote a safe and adequate blood supply throughout the country.

The Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and other blood service facilities, continues to spearhead these efforts.

Why are blood donation drives so crucial?

Because every day, thousands of Filipinos rely on blood transfusions, whether they are undergoing surgery, dealing with complications during pregnancy, or suffering from diseases like dengue, leukemia, or trauma.

A single bag of blood can potentially save more than one life.

Studies show that a healthy adult can donate blood every three months.

And apart from helping others, donating blood comes with its own health benefits, improving blood flow and stimulating the production of new blood cells.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 118 million blood donations are collected globally each year.

You don’t have to be a doctor to save a life.

All it takes is one hour of your time, and a bit of effort.

That small sacrifice could be someone’s second chance.

So next time you see a blood drive, remember, you could be the reason someone gets to live another day.