By William Agda
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) celebrated its 89th Founding Anniversary with a blood donation drive held across Oroquieta City, Sinacaban, and Tangub City in Misamis Occidental. The initiative, organized by the 903 Community Defense Center under the 9th Regional Community Defense Group, Reserve Command, Philippine Army, highlighted the AFP’s commitment to public service beyond its defense duties.
Led by MAJ Khadaffy A. Tawantawan, INF PA, Director of the 903 Community Defense Center, the event saw participation from the 903 Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion, headed by LTC Mae Dolorita K. Monicit, RES PA. Collaborating partners included the Misamis Occidental Provincial Hospital (MOPH), the Philippine Red Cross branches from Tangub, Ozamiz, Oroquieta, and Lanao del Norte, as well as healthcare facilities such as MHARS-MC.
The event was held under the anniversary theme “Sandigan ng Sambayanan, Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas” (Pillars of the People, Towards a New Philippines). According to MAJ Tawantawan, the activity aimed to emphasize the importance of blood donation and its impact on saving lives and supporting community health.
The blood drive aligns with the AFP’s broader social responsibility initiatives, addressing the urgent need for blood supplies in hospitals for emergency procedures, surgeries, and chronic illness treatments.
The AFP’s 89th anniversary marks its establishment in 1935 during the Commonwealth period, commemorating nearly nine decades of service to the nation. The celebration highlights the AFP’s evolving role in national development, with activities like the blood donation drive reflecting its commitment to serving the Filipino people.
The Philippine Red Cross and local healthcare facilities were instrumental in the success of the event, ensuring the efficient collection and processing of donated blood. Local Red Cross chapters in Tangub, Ozamiz, Oroquieta, and Lanao del Norte supported the drive, reinforcing the collaborative effort to strengthen healthcare resources in the region.