TARLAC CITY, Tarlac — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) recognized Tarlac’s significant contribution to the country’s blood services as it joined the province in honoring 532 benefactors and supporters of the National Blood Services Program during the 10th Annual Awarding Ceremony held September 15 at the Tarlac City Plazuela Hall.
Over the past six years, Tarlac’s blood donation partners have contributed approximately ₱53 million to support PRC’s blood services, underscoring the province’s sustained commitment to ensuring that life-saving blood is available to patients who need it.
Beyond its financial contribution, Tarlac remains one of PRC’s leading areas for blood services. The province ranks No. 1 nationwide in the PRC Blood Samaritan Program, which provides assistance to indigent patients who need blood transfusion.
Tarlac also ranks third within the PRC network in blood collection and blood service facilities, reflecting the strength of its donor base and blood service infrastructure.
“We bring blood wherever it is needed. That is our commitment as the PRC—to make sure that when a Filipino needs blood, distance should never stand between that person and the help they need. You do not have to force people to give here. They understand that blood donation is an act of humanity,” Gordon said.
Tarlac Governor Christian Tell Yap underscored the long-standing relationship between the province and the PRC. “When our people need help, one of the first organizations we turn to is the PRC. This is a legacy partnership—one that encompasses our years of service and our commitment to the people of Tarlac,” Yap said.
PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang affirmed the organization’s commitment to Tarlac’s blood program. “We hope Tarlac can continue to collect even more, so that the province can also help neighboring cities and provinces when they face the same need,” Pang said.
The PRC maintains a Blood Center in Tarlac City, complemented by blood service facilities in Concepcion and Paniqui, forming part of its network for blood collection and services.
Themed “Gawad Serbisyong MaYap: Dugong Buhay Awards,” the ceremony was spearheaded and organized by the Provincial Government of Tarlac to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of blood donors and partners. The event brought together representatives from municipalities and barangays, schools and academic institutions, private companies, socio-civic and religious organizations, and uniformed groups in a shared commitment to voluntary blood donation and saving lives.
The celebration was made more meaningful by the presence of Hon. Richard Gordon, Chairman and CEO of the Philippine Red Cross, who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker. His presence underscored the PRC’s enduring mission—to serve humanity and ensure life-saving blood reaches those who need it most.
He was accompanied by Dr. Gwendolyn Pang, Secretary General of the Philippine Red Cross.
The Philippine Red Cross – Tarlac Chapter extended its heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Christian Yap, Governor of the Province of Tarlac and Chairman of the Tarlac Provincial Blood Council, whose leadership and support helped make the landmark celebration possible.
Also present were Hon. Estelita Aquino, Vice Governor of Tarlac; Hon. Susan Yap, City Mayor of Tarlac City; the municipal mayors from across Tarlac Province; other barangay captains and officials; and the Board of Directors of the Philippine Red Cross – Tarlac Chapter, standing together in support of the province’s commitment to voluntary blood donation.
More than an awarding, Dugong Buhay is a celebration of the people behind every life saved—those who give freely, serve quietly, and answer the call when others are in need.
