The Christmas spirit at Valladolid District Hospital this year was extra special, thanks to a meaningful initiative that brought relief and healing to 142 residents of Negros. From December 9 to 13, Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) partnered with the World Surgical Mission Foundation Philippines to provide free surgical procedures, changing lives for the better.
A Community Effort
A group of 52 medical professionals from across the country joined forces at the hospital, treating conditions like thyroid disorders, goiters, and gallstones, and making a significant difference in the lives of their patients.
Kristelle Pascual, Executive Director of the World Surgical Foundation Philippines, shared her gratitude:
“It’s heartwarming to see so many people come together to help those in need. We are deeply grateful to Negros Power for their unwavering support. They have truly embraced our mission to bring healing and hope to communities across the Philippines.”
Stories of Healing
Every patient had a unique journey. Here are some of their stories:
- Edward Maliguian (San Enrique, Thyroid):
“Salamat sa Negros Power nga nag-sponsor sa amon nga na operahan kami. Kabay nga ang Ginoo makapamayo sa inyo kag madamo pa gid nga mga tawo ang mabuligan niyo.”
(“Thank you to Negros Power for sponsoring our operations. May God bless you and may you continue to help many more people.”) - Rachel Estrevella (Murcia, Gallstones):
“Okay na subong, makakaon na. Nanligad kada sulod sang kan-on gasakit pero subong tani indi na kay okay na pamatyagan ko. Naga-pasalamat ko sa Negros Power kay nakabulig sa amon pa-opera kag sa mga doctors nga nag-volunteer para mapatigayon ini nga medical mission.”
(“I can eat properly now. Before, eating rice caused pain, but now I feel better. I am thankful to Negros Power for helping us with the surgery and to the volunteer doctors who made this medical mission possible.”) - Elsie Espante (Goiter):
“Nalipay ako nga may free kay waay gid kami may mahimo kay pigado kami. Akon bana masakiton man kag pareho kami nga senior citizen na. Dako gid ang akon pasalamat sa Negros Power kag sa mga volunteers nga Doctors. Tani madamo pa kamo nga mabuligan.”
(“I am happy this was free because we couldn’t afford it. My husband is also sick, and we are both senior citizens. I am deeply thankful to Negros Power and the volunteer doctors. I hope you continue to help many more people.”) - Aiza Abeso (Don Salvador Benedicto, Guardian of Sharon Sogdon, Goiter):
“Nalipay kami sang nabal-an namon nga may libre nga opera kay tungod wala man kami sang may kasarang nga ipa-opera. Kaluy-an okay na gid. Una sa tanan, naga-pasalamat ko sa Ginoo kay may gin-gamit siya nga mga tawo nga makabulig pa gid sa mga naga-kinahanglan. Sa Negros Power, salamat kay nagpatigayon kamo sang amo ni nga buluhaton kay madamo gid kamo sang nabuligan kag sa mga doctors, nurses, kag iban nga volunteers salamat man kay ginhatagan sila sang kaalam sang Ginoo para makabulig man sa amon.”
(“We were overjoyed to hear about the free surgery because we couldn’t afford it. Thankfully, everything is now fine. First of all, I thank God for using people to help those in need. To Negros Power, thank you for organizing this event because you’ve helped so many. To the doctors, nurses, and other volunteers, thank you as well for using the skills God gave you to help us.”)
Spreading the Spirit of Giving
This initiative reflected the true essence of Christmas—generosity and compassion. Through the support of Negros Power and the dedication of medical volunteers, many families experienced newfound hope and relief.
Negros Power remains committed to uplifting communities, demonstrating that even in challenging times, acts of kindness can bring life-changing transformations.
