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Dear members, dear friends, and supporters of Mabuhay!
On August 17th, our volunteers and I participated in a medical mission for the first time in a long time. The location was the Catarman Cathedral, and the target group was the people of Northern Samar. Accordingly, a large number of patients came. In addition to a basic medical examination, there was a mobile dental clinic and a place to distribute reading glasses. Everything is free at these medical missions, and patients present with a wide range of complaints, many of which cannot be fully treated without additional diagnostics. For many patients, however, it is still an option to receive at least a little help in treating their complaints.
A week later, on August 24, Dr. Georg Fobes and Barbara S., a former geriatric nurse who worked at Haus Elisabeth in Bonn, arrived. For Dr. Fobes, it was her third visit with us. Ms. Schäfer had heard about our project and wanted to come with him, primarily to learn about our work at the new senior day care center and to participate in some activities with the seniors. The seniors came in large numbers and actively participated in activities such as gymnastics, dancing, and games. She also enjoyed helping with our other programs. Patients had been waiting for Dr. Fobes for a long time, as his many years of experience had helped many.
On September 15, Super Typhoon Mangkhut hit the northern Philippines with wind speeds of up to 270 km/h. It was the 15th typhoon this year. Once again, there was extensive destruction, especially in the agricultural sector. There were landslides, floods, and power outages, and many people lost their homes and belongings. Thankfully, there weren't thousands of deaths again, like in Tacloban in 2013. I think the images from that time are still fresh in all our minds. The population was much better prepared this time, thanks to the many emergency training courses held since 2013. Despite this, there were still over 100 deaths. Our clinic was only affected by strong winds and rain, with hardly any damage.
Many of you wrote and called. Once again, we saw how deeply connected you are to us and the project. Thank you so much for the many inquiries and greetings. We are not alone!
While the storm raged in the Philippines, the Meyer family in Ippendorf once again prepared and packed our transport of various relief supplies. For years, we have been collecting used clothing, toys, tools, medical supplies, medicines, and much more in their garage. The Meyer family packs everything, and the boxes of packed relief supplies go on the long journey. One transport takes 2-3 months. We can send aid packages three times a year. Thanks to the good packaging, the boxes arrive here in top condition, with practically no broken pieces inside. In this context, we would like to thank the “packing team,” Mr. and Mrs. Meyer, and, of course, everyone who keeps collecting and brings the items to the Meyer family in their garage.
From October 28th to 30th, Tobias Rast, the President of the German Club in Manila, and Philipp Schlohsnagel, the Director of the Welfare Committee of the German Club in Manila, visited us to see our programs, especially the nutrition program. The German Club in Manila has been supporting us in caring for the children since 2011. Currently, 90 children are enrolled in the nutrition program. Many families here have no regular income, and food prices have risen significantly in recent months. The families are grateful that we help them care for their children by providing nutritious meals every day. The children are weighed regularly and receive medical care if necessary.
During their brief visit, they also gained a brief insight into our other programs, such as the fluoride prophylaxis program and the medicinal plant project.
The medicinal plant project has been our special focus in recent months. The weather finally allowed us to harvest raw materials and dry them. The new drying machine was also helpful, allowing us to dry the plants even in the rain. Two young women from Bugko are helping us produce the products. We have been able to make various teas, ointments, cough syrup, and soap.
The medicinal plant project has been our special focus in recent months. The weather finally allowed us to harvest raw materials and dry them. The new drying machine was also helpful, allowing us to dry the plants even in the rain. Two young women from Bugko are helping us produce the products. We have been able to make various teas, ointments, cough syrup, and soap.
Another eventful year lies behind us. Many patients came to us for help. Thanks to your help, we were able to help so many people and do good. We also had many visitors who actively supported our work on-site. Thank you/SALAMAT for all your help and support! Be it financial support or donations-in-kind. Every bit of help is appreciated! And where it is needed, so I wish you a happy Advent season and a blessed Christmas.
Your grateful,
Sabine Korth
Malipayon nga Pasko (Merry Christmas) from Bugko!
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