THIRD RP MEDICAL MISSION ARRIVES IN LAOS

8 November 2007 – The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the third Philippine Medical Mission arrived in Laos on 01 November. The  volunteers are composed of two dentists, three doctors, four nurses, and three medical assistants from the Philippines’ Bronze Staff Foundation. The team gave free medicines and foodstuffs which brought cheer and goodwill to the impoverished around Ban Naxay Thong, 100 kilometers north of Vientiane City.

Drs. Zeferino Arroyo, a dermatologist, and William Lavadia, an orthopedic surgeon, gave two separate medical seminars to about 40 doctors, nurses, medical students and staff from the Lao Ministry of Health. Dr. Arroyo on diet as preventive medicine, and Dr. Lavadia, concerning osteoporosis, and bone and joint fractures.

Bronze Staff Consultant and team leader, Dr. James Whelchel also provided a seminar to about 20 students of the National University of Laos on small group dynamics. Dr. Whelchel stressed that  the Foundation’s commitment is to promote good health and address the medical needs of the poor through free seminars, medical and dental services, and provide medicines.

Dr. Whelchel recalled that during Laotian Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh’s official visit to the Philippines in June, he has expressed appreciation for the love and concern of the team to the Lao people. Hence, the Prime Minister extended an invitation for the Bronze Group to serve again.

Philippine Ambassador to Lao People’s Democratic Republic Elizabeth Buensuceso hosted a dinner at the Embassy residence in honor of the medical volunteers. Among those who graced the event were Officials from the Ministry of Public Health led by Minister Phonemek Dalaloy, and Filipinos serving in various offices engaged in helping eradicate poverty and diseases in Laos. The Laotian Minister expressed his deep appreciation to the Bronze Staffers for their dedication and commitment to the Laotians. END.