VALENZUELA CITY, Metro Manila — “I badly needed five bags of blood,” Francia Flores exclaimed when she was seriously ill six months ago. 

“Purchasing it would also strain us financially,” added her husband, Fernando Flores.

Nevertheless, through the assistance of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), the couple obtained the blood for Francia’s successful operation six months ago.

On May 25, 2024, Francia, her spouse and daughter, and other Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members in Karuhatan, Valenzuela City, participated in a blood donation at Pag-asa Subdivision covered court, in partnership with the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI).

Although she did not qualify, Francia still supported and encouraged people to donate blood.

“The blood donation is a big help! Firstly, it’s expensive when you have to buy [blood]. … It can help many in need,” stated Francia.

Through blood donations, INC assists its partner hospitals and blood banks.

 “There is a significant shortage in blood stocks. [The blood donation] greatly helps our hospital and the agencies we handle,” said Rowena Bofete, a nurse at NKTI. 

On this same day, INC volunteers donated blood in various locations here in the Philippines, including Batasan Hills in Quezon City; Deparo in Caloocan City; Maceda St., Sampaloc, Manila; and Kawit in Cavite. 

There were blood donations in recent weeks, in different sites outside the Philippines, including Everette in Washington, USA; Milan in Italy; and Alberta in Canada.

INC members strive to help others and their respective communities.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo has active members and congregations in more than 165 countries and territories.—Courtesy of INC Public Informations Office