Fostering Community Health Through Service and Compassion
📅 September 23, 2024
📍 Municipal Gym, Lomon, Paykek, Kapangan, Benguet
The Municipality of Kapangan, in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross – Benguet Chapter, successfully held its annual bloodletting activity at the Municipal Gym in Lomon, Paykek, Kapangan. The life-saving initiative collected 62 successful blood donations, with municipal employees, volunteers, and students joining together to support the cause.
Adding to the event’s success, Level 4 nursing students from the University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON), under the guidance of Clinical Instructor Mrs. Jessica Bentayen, actively participated in the activity. The students not only assisted with health procedures but also donated blood themselves, embodying UC-CON’s values of compassion, service, and leadership in promoting community well-being.
The event coincided with the birthday celebration of Kapangan Mayor Manny E. Fermin, creating a festive atmosphere filled with music and community spirit. Guest performers entertained attendees throughout the day, reinforcing unity and collective purpose in advancing public health initiatives.
This meaningful effort was made possible through the collaboration of the Local Government Unit of Kapangan, led by Mayor Fermin, the 3K-ILHZ (Kapangan–Kibungan–KDH Inter-Local Health Zone), the Rural Health Unit (RHU)personnel, and the Philippine Red Cross – Benguet Chapter. Their shared dedication highlights the power of partnership in promoting health and saving lives.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment
This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 17.17 – Encourage and promote effective partnerships between the public, private, and civil sectors.
The collaboration among UC-CON, the LGU of Kapangan, and the Philippine Red Cross exemplified multi-sectoral partnerships advancing community health advocacy.
SDG 1.3 – Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all.
By providing free, voluntary health services and ensuring blood availability, the program indirectly supported low-income patients and reduced medical costs for families in need.
SDG 3.3 – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
The bloodletting activity promoted public health by ensuring an adequate blood supply for life-saving treatments.
