Bago city: Bago City in Negros Occidental has committed to providing PHP2 million in funding support to the Blood Samaritan Program of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Negros Occidental-Bacolod City Chapter. The partnership was formalized during the signing of a memorandum of agreement between Mayor Marina Javellana-Yao and PRC Negros Occidental-Bacolod City Chapter chairperson Carlos Ganihong, in the presence of Councilor Robert Javellana and Chapter Administrator Rita Benita Mirasol at the city's Community Center Wednesday afternoon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Javellana-Yao emphasized that the initiative is a step towards building a community where no Bagonhon patient is denied access to life-saving blood due to financial constraints. She expressed that the partnership under the 'Give Blood Bago' banner represents a significant milestone for the city, highlighting the importance of community support in health systems.

Ganihong noted that the collaboration strengthens the support system for the most vulnerable community members who need blood but face financial challenges. He pointed out that the Blood Samaritan Fund is designed to ensure that financial limitations do not hinder access to necessary blood transfusions.

The Philippine Red Cross operates a network of blood service facilities across the country, making blood readily available to those in need. The Blood Samaritan Program specifically focuses on assisting indigent patients by covering the blood processing fees for those who meet the criteria.