Loboc, Bohol – Tzu Chi Foundation-Bohol held a two-day free dental program in Loboc, a landlocked municipality in the Bohol province on March 21-22, 2025 at the so-called Alternative Church, built after a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in 2013 destroyed the St. Peter of the Apostle Parish Church. The initiative provided essential dental care to 870 patients, including students from 7 elementary schools, the Loboc Ambassadors’ Band members, and the Loboc Children’s Choir. A total of 614 oral prophylaxis treatments and 256 tooth extractions performed, with all patients receiving free medication for better oral health. The effort aimed to address the lack of dental services in rural areas, ensuring children, and their families get access to proper oral care.
This event succeeded through the efforts of 12 dentists from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) Manila, 2 TIMA Bohol dentists, Tzu Chi Bohol staff, Tzu Chi scholars, and volunteers from Bohol, Manila. Their dedication transformed the event into life-changing experience, reinforcing spirit of generosity and service. Beyond dentists, volunteers contributed by guiding patients, organizing equipment, and ensuring strict sanitation. Their teamwork ensured smooth operations, reflecting commitment to quality healthcare for those in need.
Tzu Chi Bohol Deputy Coordinator Brother Joven Uy emphasized the importance of dental care, noting that many students in rural areas never visit dental clinics.
“I hope this mission teaches children to value oral hygiene. Parents must introduce dental visits early, so children do not grow up fearing them,” he says.
He thanks all volunteers and professionals, acknowledging their role in the mission’s success.
Manila dentist Dr. Lorna Hipe joined the mission after her classmate Dr. Alexander Copengco invited her. Moved by the opportunity to help those who cannot afford dental care, she praised the organization’s missions, quality of facilities, and strict hygiene standards.“This is a meaningful experience. This will not be my last—I am committed to providing free services whenever possible,” she shared.
Newly licensed Dentist Dr. Shanen Gayle Go graduated from the University of the Philippines last 2024. She joined mission after her uncle, Dr. Alexander Copengco encouraged her. Understanding the need for dental care in underserved areas, Dr. Go further invited 2 of her batchmates to participate.
“I believe missions and volunteer work are important to be able to serve in the Philippines where dental healthcare remains inaccessible. It is crucial to encourage more dental professionals to work toward the same goal of helping others,” she says.
Tzu Chi Youth scholar Janice Bernido played a key role in maintaining cleanliness at the sterilization area, ensuring all tools remain properly sanitized and contamination-free. “Oral health serves as the gateway to overall well-being,” she reflects.
A touching moment unfolded as Carlita Boboli, mother of 8-year-old Niño Jabasa, expressed deep gratitude. Niño, who suffered severe burns to his body brought about by an accident when he was just 2 years old back in 2019, attended the dental mission with his mother. It can be recalled that Tzu Chi met Niño at a local hospital when he had started recovering from his burnt wounds and learned that several good Samaritans had already given their support for the child enough to cover his medications. Tzu Chi volunteers went back to see Niño gifting him with toys.
“I am incredibly thankful and happy that the Tzu Chi Foundation held a dental mission in Loboc. I was able to meet the people who we met six years ago,” Boboli says, her voice filled with emotion.
Niño underwent a tooth extraction as the Tzu Chi Dentist relieved his suffering once more from the pain he had been enduring.
Niño at 2 years old, recovering from his burn wounds when Tzu Chi volunteers met him back in 2019. Photo credit: Tzu Chi Volunteer Brother Joseph Co
The free dental mission goes beyond dental care—it restores dignity, relieves pain, and strengthens community spirit. Patients leave not just with healthier smiles but with renewed hope, knowing kindness and generosity continue to thrive. Professionals, staff, and volunteers proved that compassion transforms lives. As Dharma Master Cheng Yen says, “Happiest are those who do good; wealthiest are those who have the heart to do good.” This initiative serves as a reminder that selfless giving brings the greatest fulfillment.
