PH blood supply stable but uneven, public urged to donate
The Philippines continues to maintain a generally stable national blood supply, thanks to the unwavering efforts of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Department of Health (DOH), and thousands of voluntary donors across the country. However, recent data from mid-2025 reveal a troubling picture of uneven distribution, with some regions sounding the alarm on critical shortages—particularly amid seasonal health crises like dengue outbreaks.
With 109 blood service facilities nationwide, the PRC remains the country’s blood bank cornerstone. In 2024 alone, it collected 588,575 units and dispensed 608,484—benefiting over 300,000 patients. Its daily monitoring systems provide real-time insights and responsiveness to demand surges. Still, the slight excess of dispensed units over those collected suggests a thin margin that relies on careful planning and consistent replenishment.
Regional Disparities: From Surplus to ‘Code Red’
Despite the national system’s relative strength, not all regions are faring well.
The Bicol Medical Center declared a “Code Red” in May 2025, citing critically low supply with an average demand of 40 to 70 units per day. The region attributed this shortfall to post-election slowdowns in donation drives and overlapping local festivities.
Similarly, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) reported a 32% deficit in its blood supply as of June, further highlighting the challenges of ensuring equitable distribution nationwide.
In contrast, provinces like Abra and Kalinga have demonstrated strong local engagement. The PRC-Abra Chapter collected 1,752 units of blood in 2024, surpassing their target. Kalinga is poised to meet its 2025 target with 940 units gathered in the first quarter of the year—proof that regional success is possible with sustained local initiatives.
Voluntary Donations: The Lifeblood of the System
Central Luzon exemplifies a positive shift toward a culture of regular, voluntary non-remunerated blood donation. According to DOH-Central Luzon Center for Health Development (CLCHD), over 175,000 units were collected through voluntary donations in 2024—accounting for 91% of the region’s total supply. The increase reflects the success of grassroots campaigns and stronger community engagement.
“This shift tells us a powerful story. There are already many people donating, not because they have to, but because they choose to,” said Maria Vivian Mallari, Regional Voluntary Blood Services Program Manager and Focal Person at the Central Luzon Regional Blood Center.
Yet, she noted that some patients still remain unserved, calling on local governments, NGOs, and private groups to help institutionalize a culture of giving blood—not just during crises, but as a regular civic responsibility.
To address regional supply gaps, the DOH is pushing for the accreditation of more blood collection units at the provincial level. These efforts aim to empower local health systems to better screen, store, and manage blood supplies closer to where they are most needed.
For inquiries or to organize a donation activity, contact the Central Luzon Regional Blood Center at (045) 861-3428 or email rvbsp2@centralluzon.doh.gov.ph.
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