By Dr. Carl Richard C. Dagalea
The General Parent-Teacher Associations (GPTA) of both the Elementary and Secondary Departments of the Integrated Laboratory Schools (ILS), Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), successfully collaborated on their first-ever Bloodletting Activity and Medical Mission held at the ILS Covered Court on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, Zamboanga City Chapter, the GPTAs organized the bloodletting drive to encourage parents, guardians, relatives, and even students to donate blood, especially those with rare blood types, to aid patients in need.
The Grade 10 and 12 officers of the Senior Red Cross Youth Organization (SRCY) of the WMSU ILS High School actively participated as volunteers, aligning with their Red Cross Month celebration. This event provided an opportunity for them to apply their newly acquired skills from the recent Basic Life Support Training. Under the guidance of their SRCY Moderator, Asst. Prof. Indira P. Concepcion, the SRCY officers assisted Red Cross staff and guided donors through the blood donation process.
A medical mission, conducted by the City Health Office, offered healthcare services to parents and faculty. City Health Officer, Dr. Dulce Amor Dagalea-Miravite, expressed her full support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of the well-being of parents, guardians, and faculty in fulfilling their roles.
The idea for this collaborative effort originated from Dr. Carl Richard C. Dagalea, President of the Elementary GPTA, who recognized the potential of parental and community cooperation to achieve significant goals. He envisioned the GPTAs of both departments working together to serve the school and the wider community.
Dr. Victor A. Liozo Jr., President of the High School GPTA, wholeheartedly supported the initiative, advocating for service to the common good. He believes that such community service can inspire parents to become role models for their children.
The successful implementation of this event was made possible by the unwavering support of the school administration, including Dr. Anna Louisa R. Perez and Dr. Riah R. Barcelona, Principals of the ILS Elementary and Secondary Departments, respectively; Dr. Iya Elago, University Physician; Dr. Nursia M. Barjose, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Joselito Madronal, Vice President for Administration and Finance (as Officers-in-charge of the Office of the President); and Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, WMSU President.
The GPTA officers and faculty of both departments played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event, making it a resounding success. This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of unity and the positive impact that community engagement can have on society.
