Written by: Reign J. Grabador | Photographs from: SNS Life Magazine
The Philippine Society of Medical Technology Students – University of Baguio Chapter (PHISMETS-UB) successfully conducted “Shoot Your Shot!: The 2026 Blood Bank Seminar” on March 9, 2026. This initiative is part of the university’s continued commitment to strengthening student knowledge in blood banking and promoting awareness of voluntary blood donation within the community.
Organized and facilitated by PHISMETS-UB, the seminar gathered 62 participants. The activity aimed to equip students with essential knowledge about blood banking and transfusion services and areas critically relevant for those pursuing careers in medical and allied health fields. The seminar featured two guest speakers from Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), a registered medical technologist and a nurse, who shared expertise in blood bank operations. Key topics included blood components, indications for transfusion, donor eligibility, and the blood donation process. Through these discussions, participants gained a clearer understanding of ensuring a safe and adequate blood supply, directly supporting SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 4: Quality Education.
Collaboration with BGHMC and Philippine Red Cross
Alongside the seminar, the university held “Dugong UB 2026: Creating a Difference, One Drop at a Time,” a blood-letting activity in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross – Baguio City Chapter and BGHMC, representing a strong collaboration (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals). While the seminar was independent, it complemented the university’s blood donation initiative by providing the necessary educational foundation.
Volunteer donors underwent a rigorous screening process, including health history questionnaire and physiological assessments by trained medical personnel. By the conclusions of “Dugong UB 2026,” a total of 134 blood units were successfully collected. These donations contribute significantly to the region’s blood supply, supporting hospitals and local government units that rely on life-saving transfusions. This high level of community engagement highlights the university’s commitment to outreach educational activities for the wider community.
The seminar reinforced the idea that service to the community begins before entering the professional workforce. As future professionals, medical technology students are uniquely positioned to advocate for safe blood donation. Through this seminar, PHISMETS-UB continues to nurture academic excellence and a spirit of volunteerism, proving that even the smallest act can make a life-saving difference.
