The Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya, under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, has solidified its commitment to saving lives through one of his flagship projects ”Libre a Dara para iti Umili” Signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between PGNV and the Phil Red Cross held on July 28, 2025, at People’s Stage Capitol, brought together key partners, including the 203rd Community Defense Center, Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Hospital (NVPH) Blood Bank, Region II Trauma and Medical Center (R2TMC) Blood Bank, PGNV hospitals, the Provincial Integrated Health Office (PIHO), and various community organizations.
Launched in March 2024, the “Libre a Dara” program rapidly gained ground with province-wide blood donation drives. It culminated in Governor Gambito’s recognition under the Regional Sandugo Awards, acknowledging the outstanding impact and growing reach of the program, even extending its services to neighboring Ifugao Province and securing partnerships with 12 out of 15 municipalities in Nueva Vizcaya.
Gov. Gambito has emphasized his long-term vision to transform Nueva Vizcaya from a recipient to a donor province, building a network of mutual support through sustained blood donation efforts.
To further strengthen the program, the province is collaborating with Baguio General Hospital, enabling extended reach and deeper inter-provincial partnerships. Meanwhile, financial support given to the Philippine Red Cross enhances its blood storage and campaign capabilities, ensuring not only consistent supply but also heightened community awareness and involvement.
The need for blood product beyond “Free Dara ti Umili” project addresses the reality that the cost for the screening fee ranges from P1,000 to P1,800, depending on the blood component needed. As per DOH Administrative Order 2015-0045 which sets the maximum allowable service fees for blood and blood components in the Philippines, the order aims to regulate blood service facilities and ensure they operate on a non-profit basis.
Mr. Jehova L. Olpindo, NVPH Blood Program Director, delivered the message of Governor Jose V. Gambito, who extended his gratitude to all stakeholders saying: “We will continue to work together as a province to ensure that we have a sustainable supply of blood for every Novo Vizcayano. Let us unite in this cause and build a stronger, healthier Nueva Vizcaya for future generations.” Mr. Olpindo quoted Gov. Gambito. /gloria
[This article was initially created on Facebook – Vizcaya Reporter. For PLGU-Nueva Vizcaya updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/vizcayareporter]
