Nestlé Philippines Distributes ₱2.5M Educational Grant to 100 USM Students
February 18, 2026
KABACAN, COTABATO — To mark its 47th founding anniversary with a life-saving initiative, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) Hospital hosted a bloodletting activity on February 17, 2026, bolstering local blood reserves for patients in need.
The drive drew 40 donors from a diverse cross-section of the community, including university faculty, staff, students, and local residents. This collaborative effort resulted in the successful collection of 37 bags of blood, providing a critical medical resource for the region.
The seamless execution of the drive was made possible through a strategic partnership between university organizations and local health experts. The National Training Service Program (NSTP)-Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) joined forces with the University Search and Rescue Team (USART) to lead the registration and initial screening of volunteers. To maintain the highest clinical standards, the Kidapawan City Blood Bank provided comprehensive technical and medical oversight, supervising the collection process to ensure the safety of both the donors and the vital blood supply.
For donor Hannah Jane Faith Palmos, the drive served as a meaningful tribute to USM Hospital’s legacy, transforming a traditional anniversary celebration into a life-saving mission.
“It is so fulfilling knowing that by donating your blood, you are helping others to live. Celebrating the hospital’s anniversary through this drive is a wonderful gesture of showing that we really care,” she expressed.
As USM Hospital continues its mission of delivering accessible healthcare, initiatives like this reinforce the power of collective action, where a simple donation becomes a direct contribution to patient recovery and community well-being.
Ritchel O. Torres
