The Dugoyanihan Blood Donation Activities, held on March 1-2, 2023, and September 11, 2023, at Lyceum Northwestern University in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, are powerful examples of community-driven initiatives aimed at addressing pressing health needs. Led by personnel from the 105th Community Defense Center (105th CDC), ROTC Cadets, and staff from Lyceum Northwestern University, these events were coordinated with the Philippine College of Surgeons and Region 1 Medical Center. The events, themed “Dugoyanihan, The Gift of Blood is a Gift to Someone’s Life” and “Dugoyanihan & Stop the Bleed”, mobilized volunteers to donate blood, directly contributing to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by addressing the urgent need for blood transfusions in critical medical situations. These initiatives exemplified the power of collective action, highlighting how small, selfless acts—such as blood donation—can strengthen communities, save lives, and foster a culture of compassion and resilience. Through these programs, participants not only helped save lives but also promoted the importance of solidarity and shared responsibility in community health, embodying the spirit of interconnectedness and mutual care.
The Global Citizenship event, which featured keynote speeches by Atty. Cheryl L. Daytec and Dr. Josefina B. Bitonio, also played a significant role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions and SDG 10: Reduced Inequality. Atty. Daytec’s talk on the principles of Global Citizenship, grounded in human rights, democracy, non-discrimination, and diversity, emphasized the importance of a moral code that encourages empathy, understanding, and respect for others. Dr. Bitonio’s insights on the Philippines’ standing in the global context of citizenship and the UN SDGs highlighted how individual and collective actions can contribute to responsible, ethical governance and regional development. Both speakers underscored the need for collaboration between citizens, local governments, and global organizations to address inequalities and promote sustainable development. These discussions reinforced the idea that global citizenship is not just about international engagement but also about acting locally to create a more just, equitable, and compassionate world, directly contributing to a more sustainable future for all.