“It’s my faith that motivates me to participate whenever we have activities like this. And it’s a fulfilling experience being of help to my fellow Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members, even to nonmembers.”

Thus said Dante Quiñonez Jr., head deacon of the Local Congregation of Tagumbao, who was among the Buklod and KADIWA members from the Ecclesiastical District of Paniqui, Tarlac who participated in the districtwide blood donation drive on September 20, 2025

Held at the San Manuel Cultural Center, Poblacion San Manuel, Tarlac, Philippines, the activity was facilitated by officers and members of the Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society (CMDPS) in partnership with the Tarlac Provincial Hospital (TPH).

District Christian Family Organizations overseer Brother Geovan Enriquez said, “We love our fellowmen. That’s why we extend help to those in need, be they brethren in the Church or nonmembers. That’s why the district continues to unite wholeheartedly in this and other outreach efforts.”

Quiñonez was among the more than 163 qualified as donors after undergoing a medical screening. A regular blood donor since 17 years old, he said, “It is my 34th time donating blood. After all, I benefit, too.”  

Indeed, donating blood is beneficial to the donors as well. TPH staff Clarriz Locquiao explained in an interview that it “offers many health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health by reducing excess cholesterol and iron levels. While the body has its own detoxification process, donating blood enhances it. Most importantly, it saves lives.”

Medical technologist and CMDPS member Pamela Gwen Pacheco said, “I’m truly grateful. I will also help in organizing more events like this.”— With assistance from Reinier Layug Montemayor