Three Filipino groups joined forces last Friday to host a medical mission and food-sharing program to 89 dependents of the Bahay Kalinga Shelter for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
“On behalf of Ambassador Ezzedin H. Tago and Labor Attache Albert Q. Valenciano, the Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Central Regional Operation commends these groups for showing kindness and thoughtfulness to their compatriots-in-need,” Welfare Officer Ed Y. Mendoza told Arab News on Monday.
The Filipino groups included the Riyadh and Zulfi chapters of the Guardians Republican International and the Buraidah-based Samahan ng mga Manggagawang Pilipino sa Gassim or Association of Filipino Workers in Gassim (SAMPIGA).
President-founder Roberto G. Quiroz and president Rogelio Altis, Jr., led the Zulfi and Riyadh Guardians, while president, Dionisio B. Tabuco, Jr, led SAMPIGA.
Mendoza acknowledged the volunteers travelled many kilometers to be involved in the mission.
Dr. Stanley Agor, the volunteer physician, came all the way from Hail to help.
Volunteer staff performed medicals on the dependents. Some received blood pressure and blood sugar checks while others received care for arthritis and dental ailments.
The shelter dependents have left their sponsor’s employ for reasons like mistreatment or non-payment of salary, and are waiting to return to the Philippines.
Quiros and Altis expressed thanks to the volunteers for a successful medical mission and food-sharing program. Volunteers came from the Buraidah Central Dental Department and Ayoun Al-Jowa Hospital in Qassim, King Abdulaziz Medical City and Sweetest Smile Dental Center in Riyadh.
Tabuco thanked Christopher Agustin, SAMPIGA vice president for training and education; Nestor Villarmino, auditor; Romy Ecleo and Bernie Narceda, coordinators; and Arnold G. Pineda, secretary.
