WSFP, MORE Power Offer Free Child Surgeries in Iloilo

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The World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), in partnership with MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power), successfully held a two-day major pediatric surgical mission at Western Visayas Medical Center oin Iloilo City on June 28-29, 2025.

The initiative provided free comprehensive surgical care to 22 children.

“This program is a collaboration with MORE Power, and we are thankful for their help and the support of other donors,” said Dr. Lester Suntay, president and CEO of WSFP.

He emphasized the organization’s goal to address the surgical backlog and reduce the number of patients awaiting procedures.

The mission was made possible through the involvement of MORE Power and its Key Account partners, who joined as responsible corporate citizens.

The effort was also supported by the Iloilo City and Provincial governments, Western Visayas Medical Center, and WSFP, enabling the deployment of top volunteer doctors from Manila and Iloilo.

WSFP has been providing pediatric surgical care in Iloilo for five years.

This year’s mission brought together 41 volunteers, including pediatric surgeons, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, pathologists and OR nurses, who donated their time and expertise.

Dr. Suntay noted the urgent need for such missions due to the lack of pediatric surgeons in the region.

“There are very few pediatric surgeons in the Philippines,” he said. “Here in Iloilo, there’s only one active surgeon left, and nearing retirement. In a large hospital that receives patients from nearby provinces, this shortage leaves many children waiting. That’s why we came back—to help.”

Children from Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, Capiz and Aklan received access to life-changing pediatric surgeries at no cost.

“MORE Power is happy to support this surgical medical mission,” said MORE Power President and CEO Roel Z. Castro.

“We thank the Iloilo provincial and city governments, WSFP and our generous donors. We hope this effort continues annually. MORE Power will always be a partner in improving Iloilo.”

Each pediatric surgery, typically costing between PHP150,000 and PHP200,000, was provided free, easing financial burdens for families.

“This partnership with MORE Power shows that we can serve not only the pediatric population but entire families,” said Dr. Suntay.

“It’s important for a company like MORE Power to show that beyond business, they care about the community.”

Parents expressed their deep gratitude for the program’s impact.

“We’ve been through so much,” said Miebel Ngalongalay, mother of a 5-year-old who lives with a colostomy bag.

“I’m truly grateful my child was included in this mission. We pleaded with the doctors to add my child to the list. We can’t always afford colostomy supplies. My husband doesn’t have a steady job, so this really helps ease our burden.”

The mission’s success underscores the power of volunteerism and corporate social responsibility.

MORE Power continues to lead initiatives that enhance Iloilo’s healthcare, promote sustainable development and improve lives across the province.