Iloilo: The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has encouraged Ilonggos to embark on more blood drives to ensure a sufficient supply in the province. PRC Iloilo Chapter Western Visayas Regional Blood Center manager Dr. Carlo Carado, in an interview, said there are usually fewer mobile blood donation activities in January due to festivities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Carado stated that despite the challenges in January, the PRC is still managing to supply the 26 hospitals in the province of Iloilo with the mobile blood donation activities conducted during this period. In addition to mobile drives, the PRC also accepts walk-in donors.

Dr. Carado mentioned that they do not have a specific figure for the number of blood units needed monthly, as the demand varies with the number of patients requiring blood. However, he emphasized the importance of reaching their yearly target of over 25,000 blood units to adequately supply Iloilo. He expressed gratitude to partners for surpassing this target in 2024, achieving 31,000 blood units collected.

Beyond Iloilo, the PRC also extends blood supplies to other chapters. The bulk of requests typically come from hospitals, particularly for obstetrics and surgical patients. Daily requests are received from these medical facilities, underscoring the continuous demand for blood.

For those interested in donating, the PRC encourages participation in mobile blood donation activities or visiting the PRC office. Donors should be between 18 to 60 years old, physically fit, have had good sleep, and not be ill. Additionally, groups are encouraged to commit to at least two mobile blood donation activities per year and can coordinate with PRC donor recruitment officers or email [email protected] for scheduling.