Hospitals seek donations amid ‘critically low’ blood supplies at the start of 2026

January 5, 2026 – 10:58 AM

Doctor holding a tube with blood supply (rawpixel.com via freepik)

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Two hospitals are calling for blood donations at the start of the year as supplies remain low for their patients.

On January 2,

Makati Medical Center (MMC)

lit its building in red to highlight its urgent need for blood donors.

“One blood donation can save up to three lives. Thank you very much,” the MMC added.

The hospital said donors may visit the Blood Bank on the second floor of Tower 2 from Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Asian Hospital and Medical Center

also made a similar appeal on Sunday, January 4.

“As we move forward this year, let us continue giving the gift of life to those who depend on us every day. A simple act of donating blood can bring hope, healing, and another chance at life,” the Muntinlupa-based hospital added.

The hospital said donors can visit its Blood Bank on the third floor of Tower 2 from Monday to Sunday.

Last month, the

Philippine Red Cross (PRC)

encouraged Filipinos to donate blood in anticipation of the “lean” holiday months, when donor turnout typically drops from December to January.

“Emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, and cancer treatments do not take a holiday, so we encourage Filipinos to keep blood donation in mind during this season of giving,” PRC Chairman

Richard Gordon

previously

said

PRC Secretary

Gwen Pang

also said that blood collections usually “stagnate or decline” during the holidays, as people travel, celebrate, and adjust their routines, resulting in lower donor turnout.

The PRC encouraged healthy individuals aged 16 to 65 to donate blood at the nearest Red Cross donation center or through mobile blood drives.

Donors are advised to get enough rest, eat before donating, and bring a valid ID.