Twenty-two young patients received a new lease on life as the World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), in partnership with MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), successfully conducted a two-day major pediatric surgical mission at the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) on June 28-29, 2025.
The initiative, which provided free, life-changing surgeries to children from Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, Capiz, and Aklan, was made possible through the collaboration of WSFP, MORE Power, their key account partners, and the local city and provincial governments.
“This program is a collaboration with MORE Power, and we are grateful for their support and other donors. Our goal is to help address the surgical backlog and serve those in need, especially children who have long been waiting for critical operations,” said Dr. Lester Suntay, President and CEO of WSFP.
Now in its fifth year in Iloilo, the WSFP mission brought in 41 volunteer specialists—including pediatric surgeons, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, pathologists, and operating room nurses—from both Manila and Iloilo.
These medical professionals donated their time and expertise to deliver comprehensive surgical care at no cost to patients or their families. Dr. Suntay emphasized the urgency of such missions, noting the severe shortage of pediatric surgeons in the region.
“There’s only one active pediatric surgeon left in Iloilo, and even that doctor is nearing retirement. This hospital caters to patients from neighboring provinces, and there are many children left waiting for surgery. That’s why our return here is so important.”
MORE Power also warmly welcomed the partnership, whose leadership reaffirmed its commitment to meaningful community service.
“MORE Power is proud to support this surgical medical mission. We sincerely thank the Iloilo Provincial and City Governments, WSFP, and all the generous donors. We hope to see this program continue annually. MORE Power will always be a partner in improving the lives of Ilonggos,” said Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power.
For many families, the surgeries — typically cost between ₱150,000 to ₱200,000 — were beyond reach. The free procedures significantly eased the financial burden and gave children a chance at a healthier future.
One of the beneficiaries, Miebel Ngalongalay, mother to a five-year-old who lives with a colostomy bag, shared the program’s life-changing impact.
“We’ve been through so much. I begged the doctor to include my child in the list. Words aren’t enough to express my gratitude. It’s hard for us to afford colostomy supplies, and this surgery is a huge relief for our family. My husband’s job isn’t permanent, so this means everything to us,” Miebel said in Hiligaynon.
The successful mission underscores the power of corporate social responsibility and volunteerism in uplifting communities.
MORE Power remains steadfast in its advocacy to support programs that strengthen healthcare services, promote sustainable development, and improve the quality of life for every Ilonggo.
