“This was my first time donating blood, and I’m glad I was guided throughout the process of doing so days before the actual activity,” expressed Levita Joy Javier, an organist from the Silangan Congregation, who was among the attendees of a seminar facilitated by the Church’s Social Services Office (SSO) at their house of worship, that promoted blood donation activities.

The blood donation drive of Silangan Congregation was held on September 26, 2026, at Villa Malamanig Private Resort and Events Place, along Neptune Street, within Tierra Monte Subdivision, San Mateo, Rizal; a week earlier, the local congregations of Manggahan and Karangalan Village jointly held a blood donation drive at Phase 2 Block 2 Covered Court, Kaalaman Street, Karangalan Village, Pasig City.

Over a hundred units were collected in both of the blood donation activities.

Organized and facilitated with the Rizal Medical Center and National Kidney and Transplant Institute, respectively, the days’ programs were both assisted by district Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society members and officers.

During the SSO-led seminar, the brethren were taught of the dos and don’ts in donating blood. Thus, during the health screening of aspiring donors, CMDPS officers like Daniel Conrad Majan made sure that “they had enough rest, met the required weight, and other requirements to ensure the safety of the donors and possible recipients.”

Cristelle Clavite, Silangan Congregation Light of Salvation secretary, added in a separate interview: “I ate healthy meals, drank enough water, and avoided getting fatigue before donating.”

When asked what led him to donate blood, Frederick Pactora, a Society of Communicators and Networkers (SCAN) officer, said, “Our body naturally replenishes the lost blood which can also prevent health risks like high blood pressure.”

“A simple gesture yet a noble act,” Shajid Santos of the Karangalan Village said concerning the act of donating blood. “This can help save the lives of those who need it without breaking their budget.”

“We are so glad that many brethren are much willing to unite with this activity that save lives,” expressed Brother Frederick Cortez, Silangan Congregation’s resident minister. “We will keep participating in all the projects being launched by the Church Administration to be of help to other people and for God’s glory.” — With assistance from Marikina District Multimedia