PAMPANGA, Philippines—The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) held the second year of the Kadugo Recognition Ceremony which recognizes PRC’s blood donors and partners in Central Luzon on November 13.  

PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang graced the occasion. Meanwhile, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard “Dick” Gordon gave an inspirational message to awardees and guests virtually as he is leading the ongoing operations of the PRC for typhoons Nika (international name: Toraji) and Ofel (international name: Usagi) affecting most parts of Luzon. 

“Since 1947, we have been the first blood bank in the nation, delivering lifesaving blood to hospitals across the country. We are the number one blood provider, and because of your unwavering support, countless lives are saved every day. As co-chair of the National Blood Council, I stand firm in the belief that no hospital should ever be without blood, and no person should ever be deprived of the lifesaving resource they need. Chairman Gordon stated. 

345 blood allies and benefactors of the PRC in Bulacan, Pampanga, Olongapo, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Tarlac, and Aurora were awarded Blood Samaritan Awards, Outstanding Blood Services Partners of the Year, Special Awards, Testimonial Plaque, Blood Services Platinum Awards, Scroll of Honor, Diploma of Service, and Certificate of Appreciation. 

“Please know that your efforts have made a difference. You’re unsung heroes, and your actions speak volumes about the power of kindness and humanity. Every donation you make and every bit of support you offer is a testament to your compassion and commitment to saving lives. Your contributions ensure that we can continue to provide lifesaving blood to those in need, delivering hope and healing to countless individuals and their families,” remarked Dr. Gwen Pang.  

The PRC remains the country’s major blood supplier. According to the PRC Blood Services, it collected 504,590 blood units and served 259,978 patients from January to October 2024. PRC’s target is to reach approximately 750,000 blood units this year. 

Additionally, the PRC Chapters in Region 3 contributed a total of 47,243 blood units to the seven chapter blood facilities of the PRC that supported 22,398 patients in need of blood transfusion and 561 partner hospitals. 

To date, the PRC has 108 blood service facilities, 32 blood centers, 76 blood collecting stations, and 15 apheresis centers.