A single child’s smile can change the world!
This is how Operation Pahiyum 3.0 can make a difference to children who have cleft and lip palate. At least 55 patients were given hope to smile again and not be bullied – and be free to dream for a better future after undertaking surgery on Wednesday, April 12.
Cebu Third District Rep. Pablo John Garcia expressed his gratitude to organizers of Operation Pahiyum for their continued perseverance in conducting a free surgical operation to children and adults affected with this deformity.
“Tungod niining programa, bag-o nga kalibutan ang mo abli kanila. Sa 50 kapin nga nahatagan sa gasa sa pahiyum, mausab gyud ang ilang kalibutan, ug sila pud, makapausab sa atong kalibutan. Kay kining 55 ka mga pasyente, pwede nga adunay usa o duha nga mamahimong adunay dakong papel sa katilingban,” the Cebuano lawmaker said.
Operation Pahiyum 3.0 is a Cleft and Lip Palate Surgical Operation organized by Advance Carnio-Facial Project Philippines Inc. (ACCPI) in partnership with Budjong Foundation, physician and community activist Dr. Tess Heyrosa and the Cebu Provincial Government.
On Thursday, April 13, volunteer nurses and doctors were honored and recognized in ceremonies held at the Balamban Provincial Hospital where Rep. Garcia, Vice Mayor Alfie Binghay of Balamban, Asturias Mayor Dana Andrew Dumdom, Heyrosa, organizers and patients were present.
“Through this program, this will change their world, and they will change the entire world! Hinaot nga dili pul-an ang ACPPI sa paghatag ug libreng serbisyo sa tibook probinsya,” the lawmaker added.
Heyrosa said the team is grateful to Gov. Gwen Garcia’s continued support to the program which has helped hundreds of Cebuano children and adults who have this physical deformity.
“Karon, daghan ang kinabuhi ang mabag-o ug moabot ang panahon, sa pagpadayon niining programa nga ang Cebu mahimo nang cleft lip and palate-free province,” she said.
The free surgery started in August 1, 2022 in Carcar City, then went to Bogo City on October 2, and in Balamban town on April 3 and April 11-15. | VLA