Zamboanga, Sibugay, February 2024
MISSIONS IN ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY
VALENTINES GIFT TO THE SIBUGAYNONS FEB 15-22,2024
In the last quarter of 2023, the Maharlika Charity Foundation, led by Dr. Benedict Valdez and social worker Sheila Lamban, alongside Argo Labs Corporation, formulated an ambitious mission set for February 15-22, 2024. The team, in collaboration with the provincial government headed by Governor Ann Hofer, secured plans to conduct a wide array of surgeries including laparoscopic, thyroidectomy, cleft, hernia, dental, and hemorrhoid procedures.
Simultaneously, the Emergency Medicine Department, spearheaded by Dr. Valdez, would provide crucial training in emergency and trauma management. This was a pivotal part of the Mindanao Trauma Caravan, aimed at empowering major hospitals in trauma and emergency care.
The mission’s target was to provide care for over 600 patients within a span of 5 days. The Fraternal Mason Brothers in the area generously assisted the Maharlika team in identifying and gathering patients in the region. Moreover, the PNP Regional Office 9 and the Philippine Airforce pledged their support by arranging for a C130 aircraft to transport the 60-strong mission team to Zamboanga, from where they would proceed to Sibugay for the mission at George T. Hofer Hospital.
Tzu Chi Foundation, represented by Dr. Anton Lim, also committed to aiding in identifying cases of cleft conditions. Engr. Jaydrick Yap, the head of the Regional Advisory Group Police in Region 9, played a crucial role in organizing transportation and coordinating with other stakeholders.
Nipcon Distributors, MCFI, and various other organizations is focused on providing medical assistance to indigent individuals in need of laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures. Dr. Bobby Bandolon and his team will be leading the surgical efforts, and Dr. Bastero, along with the assistance of Dr. Valdez, has played a crucial role in organizing the mission.
The generous support of Ms. Terry Cane and the Share Me A Dream Foundation from Australia has been instrumental in mobilizing financial assistance for necessary medications and supplies. Additionally, SPMC has contributed manpower and essential supplies for the surgeries.
Overall, the mission’s message appears to be one of collaborative effort, compassion, and a commitment to providing vital medical care to those who are in need but may not have the means to access it otherwise.
Dr. Ben Valdez and the Maharlika Charity Foundation Inc. held membership in the Surgeons of the Philippines College of Surgeons and had been recognized on numerous occasions for their outstanding leadership. This upcoming mission stood as a testament to their unwavering commitment to serving those in need.
-Participating stakeholders-
Dr. Aurelio Mendoza Masonic Lodge No. 283
Agila Shriners Temple 195, Sibugay Chapter
Order of the Eastern Star, Pagadian City Chapter No. 20
Davao Masonic Lodge No. 149
Sure Philippine College Of Surgeons
Maharlika Charity Foundation Inc.
Smile Train
Davao Surgical Warriors
DOH 9
Pro 9- RAGTPD
Philippine Air Force
Trans Als Med Associates
SPMC EMED Association Inc.
Kudos Trucking Inc.
Argo Labs
Bbraun
Nipcom
Robustan
PPD Surge Medical Supplies
Ishaliv Ambulance Transport
Macropharma
MBE Pharma
Share Me A Dream Foundation Australia
Southern Philippines Medical Center
Gov. Anne Hofer and The Province of Sibugay
The collaboration between the Southern Philippines Medical Center and the Maharlika Charity Foundation has resulted in the provision of various medical operations and procedures. Here’s an explanation of the procedures mentioned:
- *19 Thyroidectomies*: A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. This procedure is often performed to treat thyroid cancer, nodules, or hyperthyroidism.
- *37 Cleft Repairs*: Cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are surgical procedures to correct birth defects that affect the upper lip and the roof of the mouth. These procedures are essential for improving a patient’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe, as well as their overall facial appearance.
- *89 Dental Procedures*: Dental procedures can include a wide range of treatments such as fillings, extractions, cleanings, and other interventions to address oral health issues.
- *11 Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies*: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. It is often performed to treat gallstones and related conditions.
- *3 Hemorrhoidectomies*: Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids, which are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus.
- *1 Inguinal Exploration*: An inguinal exploration is a surgical procedure to examine the inguinal canal, which is located in the groin area. This procedure is often performed to diagnose and potentially repair conditions such as hernias.
- *7 Hernia Repairs*: Hernia repair surgeries are performed to correct hernias, which occur when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue.
Overall, these operations and procedures indicate the diverse range of medical services provided by the Southern Philippines Medical Center and the Maharlika Charity Foundation, covering a wide spectrum of surgical and medical needs within the community.
Bukidnon, November 2023
GIFT TO THE BUKIDNOANONS NOV 16-19,2023
“A charity becomes a way of life”
It’s great to hear about the successful charitable efforts of the MCFI-Smile Train on Bukidnon with Agila Shriners. The dedication to conducting cleft lip and palate surgeries under the leadership of Dr. Mike Prantilla and with the support of the local governor is truly inspiring.
The impact of providing surgeries for 60 children in the province is undoubtedly significant. It’s heartwarming to see the commitment to this annual operation mission in the area, dating back to the early 2000s.
The message is clear: through surgical missions and acts of goodwill, lives can be changed for the better, especially those of several children. This dedication truly embodies the idea that charity becomes a way of life.
Wishing continued success and positive impact for all involved in this important work.
Misamis Oriental, August 2023
Successful Cleft Lip and Palate Mission in Misamis Oriental Marks Major Milestone
From August 21-25, 2023, the province of Misamis Oriental, under the leadership of Governor Peter Unabia, a prominent philanthropist, and head of the Mindanao Shriners – Misamis Chapter, collaborated with the MCFI and the Provincial Government to conduct a significant medical mission.
The mission, which saw the participation of dedicated volunteers from various provinces and Shriners chapters, focused on addressing cleft lip and palate cases in the region. Dr. Teodoro Yu Jr., from the Provincial Health Office, and Dr. Bernard Cepeda, a pediatrician, played pivotal roles in screening and enlisting patients for the operations. The team successfully operated on over 80 cleft patients and screened even more individuals for future treatment.
Governor Unabia’s unwavering commitment to the cause was evident as he expressed his dedication to making this mission an annual event, aiming to make Misamis Oriental a cleft-free province. Furthermore, he announced plans to establish a dedicated cleft center in partnership with MCFI, a significant step towards ensuring sustainable care for those in need.
The success of the mission not only highlights the collaborative efforts of the provincial government, medical professionals, and volunteers but also signifies a major step towards addressing the healthcare needs of the community. With the promise of continued support and the prospect of a dedicated cleft center on the horizon, the people of Misamis Oriental can look forward to a brighter, healthier future.
Mlang, North Cotabato, July 2023
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SERVICING THE BAGANGGANONS
“CHARITY becomes a HOUSEHOLD WORD”
Bagangga Mission JULY 14-20,2023
It’s truly inspiring to hear about the impactful service provided by the MCFI in support of the Banganganons. The collaboration with Mayor Lara and the Bagangga municipality’s LGU-run hospital demonstrates the power of community support in making such missions possible.
The range of medical services provided, including thyroidectomy, hernia repair, hemorrhoid treatment, hydroceles, dental care, and minor and major surgeries, showcases the comprehensive nature of this mission. The fact that over 500 cases were addressed, including cleft surgeries, is a testament to the dedication and impact of the mission.
Additionally, the training provided by emergency medicine specialists and trauma surgeons, along with the successful dental extractions performed by dentists, exemplifies the holistic approach taken to address the diverse medical needs of the community.
It is commendable that the MCFI is laying the groundwork for this to become a yearly mission, as it has the potential to bring lasting positive change to the lives of the Banganganons. Wishing continued success and support for this impactful initiative.
Watch our video in Bagangga
July 13-20, 2023
Alabel, Sarangani Province, June 2023
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MCFI celebrates
50th Anniversary
Join us in commemorating 50 years of dedicated charity work across Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon! These photos showcase the strong evidence of our valuable partnerships and the unwavering commitment of our volunteers from all over the Philippines. Together, we have witnessed Maharlika Foundation’s remarkable achievements, benefiting over 80,000 individuals through 130 major missions. Here’s to the countless lives touched and the enduring impact we’ve made as we continue our noble cause.
Butuan Mission, July 2022
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