PGB recognizes Bulacan Blood Galloners
CITY OF MALOLOS – The Provincial Government of Bulacan headed by Gov. Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado recognized Bulakenyos who consistently donated their blood during the World Blood Donors Day observance held at The Pavilion, Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center early morning today in this city.
With the theme “Share Life, Give Blood: Blood Connects Us All”, the recognition for Bulakenyo blood donors was given to those who never stopped and voluntarily donated their blood to help patients to survive and continue living.
“Ang nais natin 100% blood donations voluntary katulad po ng ginagawa namin na siyang itinuturing na hindi lamang taunang ibinibigay na awards kundi bayani na nagdudugtong ng buhay. Kung papaano ang tubig ang siyang buhay , gayundin higit lalo ang dugo na nananalaytay sa ating mga ugat na nagbibigay ng buhay sa ating sarili at nagdudugtong ng buhay sa ating mga kababayan na nangangailangan,” Alvarado said.
There were 123 individuals who were given an award and were recognized as modern day heroes who have shared their blood nine times or more and annually participate to save lives of patients who are in dire need of blood.
Plaridel Mayor Jocell Aimee R. Vistan-Casaje, Hagonoy Mayor Raulito T. Manlapaz and City of San Jose Del Monte Mayor Reynaldo S. San Pedro were given the award as Most Supportive LCE Voluntary Blood Service Program.
“Hangga’t may lakas ako walang makapipigil sa akin na mag-alay ng dugo sa aking mga kababayan dito sa Bulacan,” Mario Castro from San Ildefonso said, who is also one of the Blood Galloners.
Other guests who graced the event were Dr. Joel Torregoza PhD, president of Blood Galloners and Dugong Pinoy Association and the event’s guest speaker; Dr. Emily Paulino from the Department of Health-Bulacan; Provincial Public Health Officer Dr. Jocelyn Esguerra-Gomez; Dr. Protacio Bajao, director of Bulacan Medical Center, Board Member Felix Ople , some local officials, doctors, NGOs and a lot more.
It was in 1999 when Bulacan Blood Council was established to monitor the policy of the program. In 2003, blood donors were recognized for the first time and in 2004 the Bulacan Provincial Blood Center became operational for 24/7.