Press Release | 14 June 2024

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of World Blood Donor Day, themed “20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You, Blood Donors!”, the Department of Health (DOH), through its National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP), organized a Fun Run event. This event brought together 1,000 runners which took place today, June 14, 2024, at the Academic Oval, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

Aligned with this year’s World Blood Donor Day theme, the Fun Run aimed to recognize and express gratitude to the millions of voluntary blood donors globally who have selflessly contributed to saving lives with their generous blood donation. The DOH also intended to raise awareness about the importance of regular blood donation and how it can contribute to countless patients in need of blood transfusions due to accidents, surgeries, or various medical conditions.

In 2023, the NVBSP, together with its partners, achieved the total blood collection of more than 1% of the total population in the country, in accordance with the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) of 1%  of a country’s population to obtain a sufficient supply to meet the country’s needs. Notably, this annual target has been consistently reached starting 2017, except in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The DOH also extended its gratitude to healthcare professionals, blood service facilities, and organizations who work tirelessly to ensure a safe and efficient blood donation process. Their dedication and expertise played a crucial role in maintaining a reliable supply of blood and blood products, and upholding the highest standards of patient care.

“In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of World Blood Donor Day, we are deeply grateful to the voluntary blood donors who selflessly contribute to save countless lives of Flipinos. Today’s Fun Run not only honors these heroes, but also raises awareness about the critical importance of regular blood donation. World Blood Donor Day is a powerful reminder of the solidarity and compassion that unite us in making a positive difference in the lives of Filipinos towards a Bagong Pilipinas kung saan Bawat Buhay Mahalaga,” expressed Secretary Herbosa.