Cebu, Red Cross ink deal for Blood Samaritan Program

Local

EVERY drop of blood counts in a medical emergency and Cebu made sure that every drop will be available for those who need it most.

Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon signed a P2-million agreement for the Blood Samaritan Program at the Capitol Social Hall, guaranteeing free and safe blood for indigent patients across the province.

The Cebu Provincial Government and the Red Cross formalized the program on Saturday, Sept. 20, in the presence of Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Vice Mayor Tommy Osmeña.

The initiative covers blood processing fees, including testing, collection, preparation, and component separation, while the PRC pledged to strengthen supply distribution so that hospitals will always have life-saving reserves.

In addition, the provincial government turned over a P1,213,200 check for the Safe Card Registration Program, providing insurance and emergency benefits to at least 1,111 local government responders.

Each Safe Card, with an annual membership fee of P1,200, offers one unit of whole blood, one free ambulance service per year, accident-related hospitalization coverage with a P200 daily allowance for up to two months, P10,000 in medical reimbursement, and P300,000 accident insurance.

“For just P1,200, you receive so much support from the Red Cross. That is your safety net, your defense in times of need. It is there to help you, to protect you, and to give you peace of mind,” Gordon said, emphasizing that the Safe Card is a membership program rather than a simple transaction.

Baricuatro described the partnership as a concrete step to enhance healthcare and humanitarian services in Cebu.

“When we improve healthcare, we are not only treating sickness, we are giving families peace of mind, children the chance to grow healthy, and communities hope for the future,” she said.

But no one can do this alone. Collaboration is the key to reaching more people, responding faster, and serving better,” she added.

Provincial Board Member Dr. Stanley Caminero, who authored the three resolutions supporting the program, said the initiatives reflect Cebu’s continuing efforts to strengthen public health and emergency preparedness.

The event also included the oathtaking of the newly elected PRC Cebu Chapter Board of Directors, officiated by Gordon.

The officers are Jacqueline Claudine U. Roble, William Acosta, Anton Mari Perdices, Alfred Reyes, Antonio Ynoc, Ronald Po, Christian Paro-an, Bryan Yap, Rodrigo Taneda, Jay Yuvallos, Juan Antonio Bernad, and Kirk Bryan Repollo.

Gordon recalled the Red Cross’ humanitarian work in Cebu during Typhoon Ruby, the Pinatubo eruption, fires, and earthquakes, saying the province has always been close to his heart.(MyTVCebu)