Zyrill Ianna Pauline D. Pe Benito, Ph.D., Ed.D. (Contributor)
Saving lives amid the pandemic.
A mobile bloodletting activity was held recently at Brgy 38-A Mangato East in Laoag City upon the initiative of Paraiso ni Aniben, a resort located in the said barangay. The activity, carried out with the Philippine Red Cross-Ilocos Norte (PRC-IN) chapter and barangay officials, was coordinated by Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Pe Benito.
Michael Pe-Benito, said that the blood-letting activity is their way of giving back to society for the blessings and graces they have received over the years. Although their business—which is part of the tourism and recreation industry most badly hit by the pandemic—is also facing challenges, he said God’s graces still allowed them to exhibit social responsibility. “No one has too little not to be able to give anything,” he added, “and blood is something that we can meaningfully share.”
The bloodletting activity also became an avenue to spread proper information about blood donation. Orcino said it is safe and healthy as PRC-IN personnel are well-trained and well equipped. Health benefits of donating blood include good health and reduced risk of cancer and hemochromatosis. It helps in reducing the risk of damage to liver and pancreas. Donating blood may help also result to improved cardiovascular health and reduced obesity.
The Paraiso ni Aniben initiative has inspired other barangays and private groups to also conduct blood-letting activities in the months to come.