Lacson earlier noted a shortage in the local blood supply

As part of an observance of Blood Donors Month, which is celebrated throughout July, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led an event at the Provincial Capitol, including a blood donation activity.
He called on local governments, health officers, hospital officials, among others to encourage more blood donations.
“The success or failure of our endeavor to save lives is dependent on our commitment and consistency in advancing our cause,” Lacson noted.
Earlier this week, in response to the rising number of dengue fever cases in the Negros Occidental, Lacson affirmed reports that there is currently an ongoing shortage in the province’s blood supply.
“We need donors and we are calling out to qualified donors,” the governor said.
The Negros First Provincial Blood Center, Provincial Health Office, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, Philippine Red Cross, among other agencies also worked in organizing the event.
In addition, Provincial Health Office (PHO) head, Dr. Ernell Tumimbang; Provincial Blood Council chairman, Dr. Eriberto Layda; along with representatives from hospitals, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, among other associations were also present for the event.
Blood Donors Month was officially recognized through Presidential Proclamation No. 1021, signed in 1997 by then-President Fidel V. Ramos. In the policy, he noted, “Blood donation is a humanitarian act that has saved thousands of human lives.”
“I hereby call upon all residents of the Philippines to turn their thoughts to and be inspired to emulate the men and women in our country who freely and voluntarily give part of themselves to help those in need of blood and its components,” the proclamation stated./WDJ