In a stirring demonstration of unity, compassion, and community spirit, Cagayan de Oro City rallied together for a life-saving cause during a special bloodletting activity held on April 9, 2025, at the Fifth Level of SM CDO Downtown. The event, “Dugo at Kagitingan: Pag-asa Para sa mga Munting Mandirigma – A Bloodletting Drive,” was spearheaded by JCI Kagayhaan Gold in partnership with SM CDO Downtown, Oro Builders Eagles Club, Oro Portal Eagles Club, JCI Macajalar 24K, JCI Cagayan de Oro, and JCI Bai Lawanen.
This noble initiative, a highlight of this year’s JCI Week celebration, was not just another blood drive—it became a symbol of hope for children bravely battling leukemia. Beneficiaries from the Leukemia Patients and Parents Organization (LeuPaPo) were at the heart of the cause, as each blood donation directly contributed to giving them a fighting chance.
“The happiness we feel is overwhelming, knowing that despite their busy schedules, people took the time to donate for the children,” shared Mr. Reczel Clarabal of LeuPaPo, expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the organization.
The collected blood units will be reserved specifically for LeuPaPo members, ensuring timely access during emergencies and easing the burden of finding compatible blood donors. This thoughtful collaboration between civic organizations and the medical community reflects a strong commitment to making essential health resources more accessible, especially to the most vulnerable.
“The activity aims not only to help our beneficiaries but also to create ripples of impact in how we conduct community projects—and to develop young leaders in Cagayan de Oro City,” said Alyssa Abigail P. Gabor, Vice President for International of JCI Kagayhaan Gold.
More than just a health initiative, “Dugo at Kagitingan” embodied the essence of bayanihan—the Filipino tradition of communal unity and mutual support. Each donor who stepped forward did more than give blood—they gave hope, courage, and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow for children fighting against the odds.
Indeed, heroism comes in many forms. And on that day, it took the shape of generous hearts and rolled-up sleeves. In CDO, true heroes don’t wear capes—they give.