23/08/2025
On August 22, the Batanes General Hospital Blood Bank Unit successfully conducted its second Blood Donor Recognition Program, in celebration of National Blood Donorβs Month. This aims to honor blood donors who have reached a certain milestone in blood donation.
Blood donor awardees are as follows:
BLOOD GALLONERS: (with at least 8 successful donations)
1. Mr. Josue A. Ponce - represented by his wife, Mrs. Amy Ponce
2. Mr. John Paul E. Patimo - represented by his colleague, Mr. Teofilo Anay
3. Ms. Christine G*e Telmo - represented by her co-volunteer at Philippine Red Cross, Ms. Kristine Faith Estoy
SILVER BLOOD DONOR: (with at least 10 successful donations)
1. Mr. Charlton Paolo L. Alavado
2. Mr. Alfred Israel P. Falces
GOLD BLOOD DONOR: (with at least 20 successful donations)
1. Mr. Dyan G. Gutierrez - represented by his niece, Ms. Kaye Ann Castillo
Mr. Alavado and Mr. Gutierrez shared their blood donation journey and how it impacted their lives. Mr. Alavado, who is a nurse at BGH, shared that his impact extended beyond his profession, as he voluntarily donated blood to save lives. Mr. Gutierrezβs message was read by one of the Blood Bank Staff as he was not able to attend personally. Quoting from his message: βIt's not about keeping count. Itβs about showing up. Even when it's inconvenient. Even when you're unsure. Even when nobody's watching. Because blood donation isn't just a medical act. It's a quiet commitment. A small but powerful promise. A simple way to be part of someone's second chance. So, to anyone who's scared or unsure: just try. Kahit mahirap. Kahit kinakabahan ka. Kahit di mo kabisado ang proseso, subukan mo pa rin.β
The program also acknowledged institutions for their substantial contributions and commitment to blood donation campaign. The Provincial Health Office and all 6 Rural Health Offices were given the Certificate of Appreciation as βPartners in Serviceβ in achieving the mission and vision of BGH Blood Bank.
After the awarding, Dr. Jeffrey Antony Canceran, Medical Center Chief I of BGH, shared his experience on not having immediately available blood during emergencies way back 2000 and how this event inspired and challenged him to establish a Blood Bank in our province. He extended his appreciation to the blood donor awardees and described them as not just heroes but super-heroes, and also thanked our partner institutions in blood donation campaign.
Dr. Allan Sande, Povincial Health Officer II of the Provincial Health Office, who opened the program, encouraged everyone to join the life-saving movement not just during emergencies but as part of our culture of Kapanidungan.
Maβam Darcy De Sagon and Mr. Aldon Jimmy Cariaso oriented the audience about the Public Health Unit of BGH and informed them of the current services offered by BGH and how to access these services.
May this program serve as an inspiration for everyone to actively participate in voluntary blood donation and be aware of the importance of voluntary blood donation within the local community.
