Day 2 of the Negros Solidarity Medical and Psycho-social Mission in Brgy. Tacpao, Guihulngan, Negros Oriental. Over 500 medical patients were served by the combined efforts of NIHIPCD, CHD, Franciscan Mountain Clinics, IFI, and KAUGMAON, together with its partner organizations and individuals. Many patients were diagnosed with scabies and cellulites, lumbar and joint pains, hypertension, hyperacidity, goiter, lung problems, cataracts, and dental abscess.

The doctors noted that these illnesses are related to their poor economic condition, and working environment, as farmers. More than 40 adults joined the psycho-social lecture and activity on stress and trauma recovery. It was noted that some participants expressed their fear of the devastation during storms and earthquakes. Most of them however shared the mental terror that was brought about by the intense militarization, attributed by the community to the recent murder of Endric (peasant leader) and Rosalie (barangay health worker) Calago.

Another 140 children participated in the play-therapy, body-mapping, and school-supplies-giving. Some of the children were observed to have fear in the increase in strangers around their homes, and apprehension when they see soldiers carrying guns. In spite of these problems, the people of Guihulngan remain steadfast and hold-on to collective action in their struggle for justice based on genuine social change.

Thank you to all who supported this mission!