Red Cross cites STAR

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) yesterday gave recognition to The Philippine STAR for supporting its blood donation program.

The STAR is included in the PRC’s Scroll of Honor as it has been a partner of the agency for four consecutive years and for donating more than 400 bags of blood.

The STAR, through its socio-humanitarian arm Operation Damayan, has conducted bloodletting among its employees annually since the early 1990s.

Founded by The STAR’s late founding chairman Betty Go-Belmonte, Damayan has also been involved in medical and dental missions, relief and rehabilitation operations for victims of disasters, and hospital assistance for poor patients, among others.

The award for The STAR was received by Damayan coordinator Emie Cruz on behalf of STAR president and CEO Miguel Belmonte. The recognition ceremony was held at the Manila Hotel.

In celebration of Blood Donors Month, the PRC also awarded voluntary blood donors for giving quality blood that saved lives.

In all, the PRC gave seven national awards for this year: the Blood Samaritan Award, Testimonial Plaque, Blood Services Platinum Award, Scroll of Honor, Diploma of Service, Certificate of Appreciation and Apheresis Award.

Blood Galloners, or those who have given 450 cc of blood for at least nine times, were also recognized.

The length of service and quantity of blood collection are among the criteria in choosing individual and group awardees.

PRC chairman Richard Gordon said the recognition aims to commend voluntary blood donors as these people “play a key role in having an adequate blood supply for those in need of transfusion.”

“I would also like to thank all selfless blood donors who make up the foundation of a safe blood supply. Patients who were saved from their deathbeds owe their lives to these unsung heroes,” Gordon added.

PRC secretary-general Gwendolyn Pang also expressed her gratitude to all voluntary blood donors.

PRC governor Rosa Rosal, meanwhile, underscored the need for Filipinos to engage in voluntary blood donation.

“No Filipino should die due to lack of blood. I am very happy that you are one with us in this advocacy. Thank you to all altruistic blood donors for your selfless acts. You are all heroes of this generation,” she said.