KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato— The South Cotabato Blood Center has solidified its reputation as a benchmark in provincial health services, hosting a structured learning visit from the Provincial Health Office of Davao de Oro through the Kalamboan FAST Blood Task Force.
Emy Santillan, Donor Recruitment Officer of the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, said the exchange allowed Davao de Oro officials to study firsthand the Center’s operations, including its cashier-less system, streamlined processes, and coordinated blood management strategies, highlighting South Cotabato as a model for accessibility and efficiency in healthcare.
“The Blood Center plays a pivotal role in the province’s Free Hospitalization Program under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. Patients admitted to public hospitals, such as the provincial hospital and Norala District Hospital, no longer pay for blood transfusion and processing, making life-saving treatment truly accessible to all residents,” Santillan said.
Since the program’s continuous bloodletting activities began, over 20,000 donors have participated, contributing 11,000 units of blood that have directly benefited patients across the province.
“The Center also ensures that private hospitals have rapid and reliable access to blood,” further explained.
Minimal fees cover mandatory tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, and malaria, and existing agreements allow private hospitals in South Cotabato and Davao to coordinate directly with the Blood Center for fast and efficient service.
In addition, partnerships with organizations such as the Philippine Red Cross strengthen monitoring, response, and collaboration, expanding the reach of blood services to communities in need.
The benchmarking visit fostered exchange learning and operational immersion, allowing both provinces to share best practices and innovations in blood management.
Officials from Davao de Oro left with insights on how to enhance accessibility, improve efficiency, and sustain a successful blood program.
Governor Tamayo’s administration continues to champion inclusive and compassionate healthcare, ensuring that every resident, regardless of socio-economic status, has access to life-saving services.
The South Cotabato Blood Center stands as a testament to this vision, combining innovation, efficiency, and service, and setting a standard for other provinces to emulate.
Through continuous improvement and collaborative initiatives, South Cotabato proves that effective governance and community support can save lives, strengthen health systems, and inspire neighboring regions to raise the bar in healthcare delivery.
