Airport employees at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were tagged as “new heroes” following the second blood donation campaign initiated by GMR MEGAWIDE Cebu Airpot Corp. (GMCAC) in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).
Last July 27, 2016, 31 of the 49 registered blood donor volunteers successfully donated 13,950 blood units to the PRC during the event held at the MCIA multi-purpose lounge.
Among those who participated were employees of GMCAC, PNP-Aviation Security Unit, LBP Services Corp. (LBPSC), Eva Airways, Safe Air, and SkyLogistics, among others.
LBPSC personnel Gomer Boco, a first time blood donor, said he initially felt scared with the idea of having his blood extracted but added the experience was rewarding in the end.
GMCAC employee Armarie Borden, also a first time blood donor, said that it helps to have the support and encouragement from co-employees.
The GMCAC-initiated blood drive is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility health portfolio to enhance community engagement among airport stakeholders.
“Blood donation is totally a voluntary activity and a great opportunity for employees at MCIA to come together and make a difference in people’s lives. We wish to continue this community engagement with our airport stakeholders,” said GMCAC President Louie Ferrer.
According to the PRC, the country needs 2,500-3,000 blood units daily to meet the blood demand of Filipinos. The PRC approximately supplies one-fourth of the country’s national blood requirements.
PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon earlier encouraged people to donate blood voluntarily and regularly.
He also hailed blood donors as the country’s “everyday heroes” because through their blood donation, they help save lives.
For those who wish to donate blood, the PRC has suggested to follow these simple steps: have enough rest and sleep; no alcohol intake 24 hoursprior to blood donation; no medications for at least 24 hours prior to blood donation; have something to eat prior to blood donation, avoid fatty food; and drink plenty of fluid, like water or juice. /PR