Club Conducts Dental Mission at Sisters of Mary

Over the years, RC Makati has built a strong partnership with the Sisters of Mary in Silang, Cavite through various transformative programs and community initiatives for its students. From selecting scholars for the Club’s AI Academy, to conducting mental health awareness activities and environmental projects such as tree planting, RC Makati has continued to support the holistic development and well-being of the youth under the care of the institution.

Continuing this commitment to service, RC Makati conducted a Dental Mission last May 17 aimed at promoting oral health awareness and providing accessible dental care services to underserved students.

The project was made possible through the partnership with the dedicated volunteer dentists of CEU Dentistry Batch ’87 led by Dra. Encarnacion “Keds” Cancio, through the initiative and coordination of Rtn. Wash Lou. The mission aimed to supplement the existing healthcare support being provided to the students of both Girlstown and Boystown by helping address the dental needs of the large student population, allowing more students to receive timely oral healthcare services and treatment.

A total of 20 volunteer dentists and support personnel participated in the whole-day mission, rendering free dental cleaning, oral assessment, and restorative dental procedures such as fillings (“pasta”) to approximately 206 students. Despite the physically demanding and continuous ten-hour operation, the volunteers tirelessly attended to every patient with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care.

The Club supported the mission by sponsoring the dental supplies used during the procedures, as well as the transportation service for the volunteer dentists and staff. Meanwhile, the meals of the volunteers throughout the activity were generously sponsored by the Sisters of Mary community.

The day began early as Rotarians, volunteers, and dental teams departed from Manila before dawn to ensure the timely setup of equipment and preparation of the treatment area. Upon arrival, the volunteers were warmly welcomed by the Sisters of Mary community led by Sr. Mylene Arambulo.

Before the dental procedures commenced, a short opening program was held, moderated by one of the graduates of the RCM AI Academy Program — a meaningful representation of how Rotary’s programs continue to empower the youth in various ways.

Pres. Eddie Galvez personally thanked the volunteer dentists and partners for their generosity and service, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in transforming lives through healthcare missions. He also expressed the Club’s hope for continued partnerships in future medical and dental outreach initiatives. Dir. Michael Hsu also gave a short message expressing appreciation to the volunteer dentists and everyone who helped make the Dental Mission possible.

Also present during the mission were IPP Keith Harrison; Rtns. Boy Arteche, Johnny and Christina Ang and their children; Wash and Pizza Lou; and PP Charlie Rufino with his son, Jayvee, and sister-in-law, Viol Cojuangco, who also visited the mission site in support of the initiative.

Beyond the dental services rendered, the mission became a meaningful experience of fellowship and compassion. As a token of appreciation, the students personally prepared handmade thank-you cards for the volunteer dentists and Rotary members, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for the care and kindness extended to them throughout the mission.

The Club also distributed locally made products including freshly baked cookies and bread made by the Sisters of Mary community to the volunteer dentists — simple but heartfelt gifts showcasing the talents and livelihood programs of the students. In addition, Rtn. Wash Lou and Pizza Lou gave Bangkok Tamarind treats for both the volunteers and the Sisters of Mary community.

The atmosphere throughout the day was filled not only with busy dental procedures and clinical work, but also with smiles, gratitude, and renewed hope. For many students, the mission meant relief from discomfort and the opportunity to receive quality dental care they otherwise may not have easily accessed.