Maynilad, the private water concessionaire for the West Zone, held its bi-annual blood donation program last August 14, in partnership with the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC). Over 27,000cc of blood were collected from the employees of the water company.
Maynilad conducts its voluntary blood donation program twice a year, with 61 employees participating in the most recent activity. The water firm has been partners with PCMC since 2003.
The Philippine Children’s Medical Center is a government-owned and controlled corporate National Center for Specialized Health Care. One of the Center’s main research thrusts lies on the common causes of morbidity and mortality affecting Filipino children. Through its partnership with PCMC, Maynilad has given over 253,500cc of blood for young Filipinos in need.
Aura Sanchez, a Maynilad employee, said she was initially afraid of giving blood. However, the thought that she would be giving life to a sick child emboldened her. Since overcoming her fear, Sanchez has donated ten 450cc bags through Maynilad’s voluntary blood donation program. She was recently hailed by PCMC as a “Blood Galloner.” After her donation, Aura said she feels “healthier and younger.”
Dr. Ricardo Miranda, Head of Maynilad’s Health Management team, agrees with Ms. Sanchez’s assessment. “Aside from being a Good Samaritan and feeling great about it, the donor derives health benefits from the activity. When one donates blood, the body produces new blood within 24-48 hours, which helps the donor in many ways — his own body resistance improves, the circulation improves, and he feels healthier than before,” added Dr. Miranda.
As the water provider for seven million people in the West Zone, Maynilad is at the forefront of promoting the health of its consumers and employees – not only by providing safe and reliable water for its customers, but also through activities such as the voluntary blood donation program.
Photo shows PCMC’s medical staff attending to the volunteers of Maynilad’s blood donation program.