Filling the world with smiles

Filipino ring icon Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will again face off with archrival Manny Marquez in Las Vegas tomorrow in the United States, Sunday (Manila time).

One can check out selected hotels and restaurants in Bacolod, including L’Fisher and Bar 21, for a comfortable view of the match.

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The Operation Smile International 2008 conducted another mission in Negros Occidental, recently. The group, composed of 26 local and international doctors and volunteers, was in the province nine days, and stayed at Sunburst Resort.

A welcome dinner was hosted by the Province of Negros Occidental represented by acting Gov. Isidro Zayco. On their second night, Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentevella, and his wife, Patching, also honored the team at East Block. The group had bonding time at Jomabo Island Resort.

A total of 230 patients were screened, 181 of them were treated, including 146 with harelip or cleft palate, 35 obturators fitted, and six speech bulbs made.

Over all event chairperson was Edith Villanueva, mission coordinators were Gloria Melocoton and Dr. Ceres Baldevia, TLJP Hospital coordinator Dr. Maritel Ledesma and Tessie Severino, Food and Socials Committee head was Ceres Magadia, registration – Techie Keh, education – Majella Calud, medical group – Helen Magadia, in charge of traffic – Brian Keh, patients’ recruitment – Hope Foundation Inc. Dr. Ceres Baldevia and Arlene Mae Sajo.

The 16th OSI Mission was so successful that almost all patients operated on can smile now.

Remember: Try to appreciate the tremendous value of having an understanding friend.*