Getafe, Bohol – Rain poured, but compassion flowed even stronger. The Tzu Chi Foundation’s first-ever dental mission in the town of Getafe pushed through on June 28–29, 2025, at the Getafe Cultural Gymnasium in Poblacion Centro, bringing relief and smiles to 666 patients. Throughout the two-day mission, 289 underwent tooth extractions while 377 received dental cleanings. The mission spanned two days to accommodate the expected target of 1,000 patients, though bad weather and travel limitations impacted turnout.
Located 87 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, Getafe is more than three hours away by bus. Tzu Chi chose this town as the mission site because it is part of the foundation’s growing community, and the need for dental care, especially among residents of Nasingin Island, is highly significant. For many islanders, it’s a heartbreaking reality that dental care is viewed as a luxury rather than a basic necessity, due to both its high cost and the lack of accessible dental professionals. In Bohol, tooth extraction typically costs ₱1,300 to ₱4,000, while dental cleaning ranges from ₱800 to ₱2,500-amounts that are simply unaffordable for most families. Most residents rely solely on fishing as their main source of income, and with a minimum daily wage of only ₱453 to ₱501. Their earnings are often just enough to meet basic daily needs, leaving no budget for dental expenses. As a result, when a toothache strikes, many are forced to endure the pain rather than seek treatment they cannot afford.
This meaningful service was made possible through the collective efforts of 105 dedicated individuals, including 2 commissioners from Manila, 11 volunteer dentists from Manila and 2 from Bohol, 3 dental aides, 13 staff members, 49 Tzu Chi Youth, 7 scholars, and 18 community volunteers.
Their teamwork and unwavering commitment ensured smooth operations despite the gloomy weather and helped deliver essential dental care to residents from remote and underserved barangays including Taytay, Tugas, Campao Occidental, and the island of Nasingin, one of the most densely populated islands in Getafe.
For many children, the dental mission was a new experience that brought both nervous and real smiles.
Sixth grader Jaridel Mioles Tampos, 11, from Nasingin Elementary School was nervous. But when the dentist gently said, “It won’t hurt”, his fear melted away. He bravely completed his first cleaning. “I’m thankful to the Tzu Chi Foundation for helping children like us, especially those from our island where there’s no dentist,” he said.
Also 11, Prince Arnel M. Baguio from Taytay Elementary School had his first tooth extraction. “I grabbed the opportunity because it was free,” he shared. Afterward, he promised to brush regularly, avoid sweets, and eat healthier. “Thank you, Tzu Chi Foundation. I hope more people can experience this.”
Among the mission’s silent heroes was Juanita Suello, a 75-year-old Tzu Chi volunteer from Barangay Tugas and the 100th Happy Home beneficiary in Bohol. Despite her age, she continues to serve with a grateful heart. Since Typhoon Odette, she has been actively giving back to the community. During the mission, she was assigned to the sterilization area, diligently cleaning dental instruments to ensure safety for every patient. “This is a big help, especially for those who can’t afford dental care,” she shared.
It was also the first time to join a mission for Dr. Jessie John Ma Alat, a Marikina-based dentist with over 30 years of experience. Invited by Dr. Melinda Cortez, he flew to Bohol to serve. “I’ve always wanted to give back,” he said. “Dental care is expensive, and many families simply can’t afford it. I may not know these kids, but they’ll remember this help and that’s what makes it all worth it.” Exhausted but fulfilled, he promised to return.
A Tzu Chi scholar for two years and a third-year psychology student at BISU Main Campus, Andrea Jimenez, volunteered as a dental assistant. “It was tiring, but I’m deeply grateful. Tzu Chi has helped me grow in so many ways,” she shared. The experience inspired her to pursue a future in medicine. “I want to become part of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association and help change lives.”
Maria Ima Abarre, principal of Nasingin and Tugas Elementary Schools, called the mission a blessing. “Many families can’t afford dental care. This mission made a real difference,” she said. “Even though only some students could attend, I saw their smiles and the gratitude shared by parents online. I hope there are more missions like this.”
Parents like Marilyn Socatre from Taytay didn’t let the rain stop them. She came with her two daughters. “We were soaked, but it was worth it. This was our first time receiving free dental care. I’m truly grateful to the Tzu Chi Foundation.”
As Tzu Chi Foundation continues its work, the people of Getafe will remember this mission as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Rain may have fallen, but it couldn’t stop the sunshine.
