Valenzuela City Mayor Sherwin T. Gatchalian encouraged citizens to donate blood to the Philippine Red Cross Valenzuela City Chapter in the event dubbed as “Dugo ko, Alay ko: Birthday Bloodletting Campaign.”

The activity is part of “Araw ko, Alay ko… Valenzuelako,” a week-long celebration fêting Valenzuelano pride and identity, and their commitment to be of service to their country and fellowmen.

Sixty-five people from different walks of life – mostly employees of the City Government – contributed 450 ml of their blood to the Philippine Red Cross, Valenzuela City Chapter.  A total of 28,350 ml of blood was bled during the entire event. 

Adner Magat, a security guard of the Valenzuela City Convention Center, voluntarily gave 450 ml of his blood to the program, profoundly saying that his blood is not “for sale."

“Eighteen years old pa lang po nung magsimula akong mag-donate ng dugo. Pang-26 na beses ko na po ito dahil alam kong ibibigay ng Red Cross ng libre ang dugo ko sa mga nangangailangan.  (I started donating blood when I was 18. I kept on it and this is now my 26th time to give blood knowing the Red Cross will give it for free to those who need it.)” Magat expressed.

PRC – Valenzuela City Chapter Chairman Elizabeth Chongco expressed her elation at the turnout of the activity, which is a regular part of Mayor WIN’s birthday celebration.

“We are glad that more and more people offer their blood as the years go by.  Mayor WIN, a consistent blood donor, is truly leading by example,” Ms. Chongco concluded.