Scholars of the Department of Science & Technology enrolled in the different universities in Dumaguete launched the Youngblood Initiative Bloodletting during the Science, Technology & Innovation Week in response to the urgent call of the Philippine Red Cross.
John Calbores, a DOST scholar studying Mechanical Engineering at Negros Oriental State University, shared his enthusiasm for the noble cause. “I donates blood because I want to help many people in my own way. I also know there are a lot of [physical] benefits when one donates blood. It can help other people, and it helps me as well.”
Michelle Cruz-Maquiling, head of the Philippine Red Cross-Negros Oriental, expressed her gratitude to the DOST scholars for spearheading the blood donation activity, emphasizing on the importance of involving the youth.
“Before, our uniformed personnel were our [main] source of blood donations,” she said. “This time, we are starting with the youth. At least one percent of the total population should donate blood so there is no shortage of blood in the Province. And so I’m very glad the DOST scholars made this initiative,” Cruz-Maquiling said.
About 30 donors participated in the blood donation drive held at Robinsons Place.
Maquiling highlighted the multiple benefits of donating blood: “First, you save lives of patients in dire need of blood. Second, you are checked-up [by a medical doctor] if you are physically healthy, if you have high blood pressure, or at least you are referred for [further] consultation. And lastly, you receive a Blood Donor’s card from the Philippine Red Cross.”
The Youngblood Initiative was co-presented by the Sangguniang Kabataan Pederasyon ng Dumaguete, participated by the Local Youth Development Office, and the Local Youth Development Council of Dumaguete. (Reinhold Jek Abing/DOST)
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Photo Caption: A DOST scholar donates blood during the Youngblood Initiative Bloodletting for the Philippine Red Cross.
