Dili, October 15, 2025 (Média Democracia) — The Secretariat of State for Civil Protection, in collaboration with the Timor-Leste Red Cross (CVTL) and the Blood Bank Department of the Guido Valadares National Hospital (HNGV), held a blood donation activity to commemorate the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, which takes place annually on October 13. The event was conducted at the CVTL building in Farmosa.
Secretary of State for Civil Protection (SEPC), Domingos Mariano Reis, stated that in celebration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, APC and its relevant partners and ministerial lines will also carry out further activities on October 23, 2025, in Oecusse-Ambeno (RAEOA).
“The purpose of this blood donation activity is to help those who are ill and in need of blood to save their lives. This activity marks the beginning of our commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction,” said Secretary of State for Civil Protection, Domingos Mariano Reis.
He continued that Timor-Leste, as a member of the United Nations, joins the world in celebrating the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction every year. This blood donation activity is one of APC’s contributions to helping patients in need by providing lifesaving blood.
“We all know APC’s mission is to protect and serve the citizens of Timor-Leste from disasters and catastrophes. Today’s blood donation activity is also part of humanitarian assistance, showing our commitment to protect and support hospital patients. APC members are volunteering their time and will to donate blood to the HNGV Blood Bank and also to provide food support for vulnerable groups in RAEOA as part of the commemoration,” he added.
The Secretary of State emphasized that this activity reflects cooperation between APC and CVTL in saving lives through voluntary blood donation, especially for patients in hospitals.
Meanwhile, Agapito da Silva, Secretary-General of the Timor-Leste Red Cross (CVTL), stated that disaster management remains a major concern for everyone today, and CVTL continues to assess and respond to the impacts of climate change.
“To reduce disaster risks, one of the key elements is an early warning system. This system is crucial for disaster risk reduction and for minimizing the impact of hazards on vulnerable communities,” said CVTL Secretary-General, Agapito da Silva.
He further noted that blood donation is extremely important because, within a single minute, one unit of blood can save another person’s life.
The blood donation activity involved APC officials, UN agencies, ministerial lines, and both national and international partners. Every year, CVTL works in partnership with ministries, APC, PNTL, F-FDTL, civil society, and students to promote awareness and cooperation in blood donation to help save lives.
Reporter: Nelfiano
Photo: Nelfiano