BukSU Students Lead Donor Turnout in Dugong Bombo Blood Drive

Bukidnon State University students formed the largest group of donors during the Dugong Bombo blood-letting activity organized by Bombo Radyo Malaybalay on November 15, 2025, at the university’s main campus gymnasium. The event was held in partnership with BukSU and the Philippine Red Cross.

The one-day activity yielded 182 bags of blood for the Red Cross-Bukidnon supply. Most donors were ROTC and NSTP students and members of the Alpha Kappa RHO-BukSU Chapter.

“Donating my blood is just a small act that I can offer to help others,” said Community Development student Maria Bhebs Jalagat.

“I know there are many patients in hospitals who urgently need blood, and I am happy to help them,” said Philosophy student Ara Grace Jane Nitura.

For Information Technology student Daniel Cedrick Sanglay, the activity marked his fifth blood donation to the Philippine Red Cross. “I just want to save lives. Blood donation also provides health benefits to the donor. My body doesn’t feel heavy after donating, it improves my appetite, and I feel more relaxed with less stress.”

“It’s better that we are able to help others rather than be the ones needing help,” said BukSU 1st Class-Advanced ROTC officer Cdt. Maj. Stephany Davin.

The Bukidnon Provincial Medical Health Center commended the BukSU students who donated. “At their young age, they already have the desire to help others,” said Dr. Leonardo Galang Jr., Medical Officer III. “Donating blood is a heroic act. It can really save lives.”

Other BukSU students also assisted as volunteers in facilitating the activity.

As part of the activity, the Philippine Red Cross conducted an orientation for students and donors, discussing the importance of voluntary blood donation and the health benefits it provides. The session explained how regular donation supports the national blood supply while helping donors maintain healthy blood flow and monitor their overall health.

Agencies and organizations outside BukSU also joined the donor pool, including personnel from Malaybalay City’s local government units, the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army, and private individuals and groups.

The Philippine Red Cross-Bukidnon said the collected bags will help replenish the province’s blood bank inventory. The organization noted that demand remains high throughout the year and called on the public to continue donating.

Dugong Bombo is conducted simultaneously in 25 areas nationwide. The 2025 run generated more than 2.1 million cc of blood from over 4,000 donors. (BukSU-Information Unit with contribution from Mary Jane Buna, Devcom student)