‘Support donation drives amid shortage’ - BMC Blood Bank

By Ryan Mostar

The Bicol Medical Center (BMC) Blood Bank and Transfusion Service is urging the public to donate blood as the city continues to experience a shortage. According to Mario Chavez, coordinator of the hospital blood program, the decline in blood supply has significantly impacted hospitals and emergency cases. “The shortage started right after Typhoon Kristine because some of our blood donation drive sponsors had to cancel their events. This created a gap in our supply, and we have been struggling to recover for the next two months,” he explained.

The crisis became so severe that in January, the blood bank declared a Code Red, indicating an emergency-level shortage. Chavez recalled the challenges during this period. “Hospitals were running dangerously low on supply. We had to issue urgent calls for donors to prevent treatment delays,” he said.

Recognizing the urgency, several organizations stepped up to help. The Civil Service Commission (CSC) organized blood donation drives to boost supply, calling on government employees and volunteers to donate. Likewise, Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST) joined the initiative, mobilizing students and staff to contribute. Their efforts played a key role in increasing available blood stocks and preventing further shortages.

Chavez emphasized that while blood is needed in many medical emergencies, the two most common cases requiring blood transfusions in BMC are:

• Cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, as treatments often damage bone marrow and reduce the body’s ability to produce red blood cells.

• Childbirth complications, where severe bleeding (postpartum hemorrhage) can put both the mother and baby at risk without immediate transfusion.

“These patients rely on a stable blood supply to survive, and we can’t afford shortages when their lives are on the line,” Chavez stressed.

To clear up a common misconception, Dr. Raymundo Ibarrientos, head of the BMC Blood Bank and Transfusion Service, reassured the public that blood donations are not exclusive to a single hospital. “When you donate blood, you’re not just helping one facility—you’re contributing to a citywide network,” he explained. “If you ever need blood in the future, you can avail it from any hospital within the region, regardless of where you originally donated.”

This system ensures that supply is efficiently distributed and that patients receive the blood they need without unnecessary delays.

Dr. Ibarrientos also highlighted that BMC offers services that aren’t yet available in other hospitals, such as Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TP), a life-saving procedure for patients with severe blood disorders, immune system diseases, and other critical conditions.

“The good news is that when you donate, you’re not just contributing to a random stockpile—you’re supporting a hospital that provides top-tier services, ensuring that every drop of blood is put to the best possible use,” he explained.

While the blood bank has been working closely with hospitals, local government units, and private organizations to arrange blood drives, Dr. Ibarrientos is pushing for stronger public awareness programs. “The truth is, most people don’t think about donating blood until someone they know needs it. We need to change that mindset,” Dr. Ibarrientos said. “The best time to donate blood is before there’s an emergency, not during one.”

Despite ongoing efforts, the city’s blood supply remains unstable. Chavez encourages eligible individuals to step forward and donate. “One donation can save many lives. The process is safe, quick, and makes a lasting impact on the community,” he said.

The blood bank also calls on businesses, schools, and organizations to collaborate in hosting blood donation drives. “Every effort counts, and with more community involvement, we can prevent future shortages,” Chavez added.

Volunteers interested in donating blood can visit the local blood bank or join upcoming mobile blood drives. Donors must be in good health, with 8 hours of sleep, at least 50 kg in weight, no alcohol intake 12 hours before donating, and free from recent illnesses.

For more details on donation schedules and eligibility, individuals are encouraged to contact the blood bank or their nearest hospital.