Telco cited for blood donation drive

SMART Communications Inc. (Smart) was once again recognized by the Philippine Red Cross for its contributions to the nationwide blood drive efforts of the organization.

Culminating the observance of Blood Donors Month in July every year, Red Cross recently staged its recognition day and named Smart one of its leading partners in the promotion of blood services.

Smart-supported bloodletting activities in Dumaguete, Cebu, Guimaras, Iloilo and Bacolod also generated the highest number of blood donation in the region.

In Cagayan de Oro city, the local chapter named Smart the “Bloodiest Telco” for the third year in a row.

During the awarding n Manila, Smart also received recognition from the Red Cross’ Rizal, Batangas, Baguio and Laoag chapters.

“We are thankful to The Philippine Red Cross and we’re glad to support each other’s programs,” said Darwin Flores, Smart’s senior manager for community partnerships. “We are proud to be a partner of the organization and its numerous chapters nationwide and we also like to acknowledge their assistance, particularly in our disaster preparedness and response efforts.”

Earlier this year, Smart turned over tents to Red Cross’ provincial chapters for use in emergency response, libreng tawag and relief efforts in the country’s calamity-prone areas.

Smart has also provisioned a text-based donation service where Smart subscribers can send help via text message. The service was already used by Smart subscribers to send donations to assist those affected by the past disasters such as CDO and Iligan’s typhoon Sendong in 2011, the Negros Oriental earthquake early this year, and more recently the monsoon flooding that submerged Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

To donate, subscribers only need to text RED <AMOUNT> to 4143. Valid amounts for donation are (10, 25, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000).