DISASTER RESPONSE
HEALTHCARE
The oil spill that has impacted the coastal communities of Mindoro has placed a great need for aid and support. It has not only caused environmental damage but has also threatened the livelihoods of fishermen and their families. With the fishing industry severely impacted, many families are left without a source of income and struggling to put food on the table.
Sitio Mapedya is a remote community of Dumagats in Nueva Ecija. Because it is so far from the city and difficult to reach, they barely receive any help.
In response, Operation Blessing has stepped in to help those affected by distributing hundreds of food bags.
One of the beneficiaries, Ben, 65, came to the mission complaining of a cough that he had been enduring for months. “I have had this cough for a long time now. Sometimes, it is too painful that I can’t breathe and can’t sleep.”
Leovel Moreno was one of the beneficiaries, and he felt a glimmer of hope ignite within him. “I am very grateful for the help that Operation Blessing provided. It’s a big help for my family during these difficult times.”
The OB team traveled for almost an entire day, crossing rivers and rocky paths under the scorching heat, just to reach the area and conduct a two-day medical mission.
Even so, as a father, Ben has to work to provide for his household. Two of his six children are studying, and he also takes care of his grandchildren. He is a very hardworking father, doing both farming and broom-weaving. Aside from the checkup, Ben also had his blood sugar and cholesterol checked. He was given medicine, vitamins, and hygiene products.
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