A review of the Philippines
Lisa Fujimoto Yamaguchi, Team Leader
I would like to first thank the phenomenal Operation Walk Philippines team and the St Elizabeth Hospital colleagues for their extraordinary dedication to the patients of General Santos City. This combined team has been the best I have experienced personally in my 22 years with Operation Walk Los Angeles. With 19 first-time volunteers participating on this mission, we successfully operated on 37 patients and performed 38 joint replacement surgeries. These patients came from near and far. This mission would not have been possible without the exemplary teamwork of each and every team member.
Champions of Restoring Mobility: Sir Tony Veneracion and Manny Pacquiao’s Dedication to Operation Walk
Two prominent figures in General Santos City emerged as key figures in this life-changing medical mission: Sir Tony Veneracion, CEO of St. Elizabeth Hospital, and former Senator and 8 division world champion in boxing Manny Pacquiao. Their combined efforts and support created a lasting impact on everyone involved.
As the CEO of St. Elizabeth Hospital, Sir Tony has dedicated his career to providing quality medical care for the patients in the Philippines. When the OpWalk LA leadership team approached Sir Tony about a medical mission last year, he quickly knew this opportunity would change the lives of those in need. With his extensive network and commitment to the community, he coordinated various departments, facilitated communication, provided staff (who worked tirelessly and took time out of their personal lives), and facilities to support the mission. St Elizabeth also generously sponsored all of our lunches, most of our team dinners, and provided transportation for our volunteers. Under Sir Tony’s leadership, St. Elizabeth Hospital became the hub of the mission’s activities.
During the planning stages, Sir Tony was instrumental in helping us gather all our requirements to ensure the mission’s success. Without his support and guidance, the mission would not have been possible.
Known globally as a boxing legend, Manny’s influence extends beyond the boxing ring. His commitment to philanthropy has earned him the respect of millions of people around the world. When we discussed the plan for a medical mission with him several years ago, Manny saw it as an opportunity to give back to his hometown, General Santos City.
The Mayor’s welcome dinner was a grand affair, with city government officials and other dignitaries in attendance. Sir Manny’s presence elevated the event, and his heartfelt speech emphasized the importance of our mission. He spoke with conviction about the positive impact our work would have on the lives of those in pain from hip and knee diseases. He mingled with the volunteers, signed items, and took photos with everyone in attendance.
The highlight of our mission was Manny’s visit to St. Elizabeth Hospital. He was eager to walk through and observe first-hand the impact of our mission on patients’ lives. His genuine interest and involvement made a lasting impression on the patients, their families, the team, and the local community.
He was extremely impressed with our teamwork and how the patients are able to regain mobility and walk the very same day. He spent quality time in the post-op wards, engaged with patients and the medical staff, observed the operating rooms, and visited the post-anesthesia unit. His charismatic presence and genuine compassion inspired everyone.
Impressed by the dedication of our team and the results we achieved, Sir Manny’s support went beyond words. He generously sponsored the entire cost of the hotel lodging for all 58 volunteers for the duration of the medical mission, ensuring our team was well-rested and comfortable. His hospitality didn’t end there; he invited us into his home and made us feel like family. The time he spent with us was invaluable, a testament to his commitment to our mission.
Sir Tony Veneracion and Manny Pacquiao’s combined efforts transformed the lives of many people in the Philippines. Patients who had once suffered from hip and knee diseases found hope through the help of the entire team.