We often assume that the lack of oral healthcare is a problem faced only by remote and underserved areas. However, the dental mission conducted by Tzu Chi Foundation Bohol on September 27–28, 2025, at Cogon Elementary School in Tagbilaran City, revealed that even communities within the city continue to experience limited access to essential dental care.
This was best captured in the words of Tzu Chi volunteer Brother Joseph Co, who described the mission as the most efficient and high-output dental mission ever organized in Bohol. “By 2 p.m., we had already reached our target number of patients, which had never happened before. This is because we had five dental technicians who came all the way from Taiwan. They maintained and repaired what is needed on all the dental machines and equipment in their best condition, allowing the dentists to maximize their treatment of patients,” he shared.
Indeed, technical expertise played a vital role in ensuring the smooth operations during the mission. Taiwan volunteer technician Brother Lin Chin-An explained, “The local volunteers do not know how to repair and maintain the equipment, so we guided them on proper maintenance to ensure functionality.” Surprisingly, it was learnt that he once headed a publications department in Tzu Chi Taiwan, but his main profession is in industrial electrical engineering, so these tasks are relatively manageable for him. Since they involve both mechanical and electrical issues, they align well with his expertise. That’s why, whether in international medical missions or local missions, he usually stays on the side to assist. “Whenever someone asks for help, we step in to support,” he said.
With pride and confidence in the dental equipment fixed by Taiwan technicians, their head, Brother Wu Chi-Ming, explained that, “These machines themselves will not fail easily. If problems occur, they are usually caused by human factors or issues with the wiring. As long as the wires are replaced and proper maintenance is carried out, the machines can perform excellently. These machines were developed through the wisdom and dedication of our Tzu Chi brothers, representing the intellectual property and collective effort of Tzu Chi members.”
The 2-day dental mission was able to serve 634 through oral prophylaxis and 368 tooth extractions for a total of 1,002 patients. This success was made possible through the collaborative efforts of 198 compassionate individuals, including 5 Tzu Chi commissioners from Manila, 19 staff, 14 volunteer dentists, 90 scholars, 15 local volunteers, 7 Taiwan volunteers, and 3 dental aides.
Two volunteer dentists shared how meaningful the mission was for them. Doctor Alejandra Anoling, invited by her friend Dr. Lorna Hipe, joined Tzu Chi’s dental mission in Bohol for the first time. Though initially hesitant due to her busy schedule, she was glad she participated. “Everything was so organized, and the assistants were well-prepared. I’m grateful that even the young children trusted me to treat them,” she said, noting that patience and kindness were key in earning their trust. Having been practicing her profession since 1998, she described the experience as truly fulfilling.
Similarly, Dr. Shinley Alyssa Martin, invited by Dr. Alex Copengco and who began volunteering as a student in Bacoor, shared that her passion for helping others and past experiences in helping orphanages motivated her to join the mission. “Everyone here is so friendly, and I love working with children; I really find them cute even when they cry,” she said with a smile. Having passed her dental board in 2022, Dr. Martin also praised the efficiency of the dental kits and the joy of seeing children learn the importance of oral care.
Parents and children also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the mission. Lauro Alcala, a 55-year-old single parent born with a congenital absence of fingers in his right hand, shared how thankful he was that his two daughters received dental treatment. “The scholars assisting here are very good and confident in helping. I’m really happy that my two children, Chelzy and Julia, had this chance,” he said, adding that despite the struggles of parenting alone, he continues to rely on God’s guidance.
For the children, the experience was both new and memorable. Eleven-year-old Grade 5 pupil Kenna Mae Madria described her first dental cleaning as a positive one. “It was okay, and I felt comfortable. I wasn’t really that scared. We really need to maintain the cleanliness of our teeth so we won’t suffer from toothaches,” she said.
Her mother, Maefiel Madria, expressed gratitude for the mission’s positive impact on families after her three children, including Kenna, received dental cleaning services. “This program is very beneficial for elementary schools, not only because it’s free, but also because many families cannot afford this kind of dental care in private clinics. Through this, children become more aware of the importance of oral health. Thank you for this event and the opportunity given to public school students. It really helped a lot of children,” she added.
Before the dental mission ended, Tzu Chi staff member Joel Araña gained valuable knowledge as Taiwan technicians taught him how to properly handle and maintain the dental equipment. Despite the language barrier, communication was made possible with the help of Tzu Chi Philippines’ Deputy CEO and Bohol Coordinator, Brother James Chua, who served as translator. Joel shared, “This will help us in future dental missions, and we will be able to apply what we learned so it can benefit even more Boholanos with their dental health. I hope this small act of kindness can help more students.”
The success of this dental mission proved that even a city community needs access to dental healthcare, reminding us that missions like this should be guided not by proximity but by the sincere desire to serve those in need.
