Love in Action – a SIPAG initiative

Months ago I joined a medical outreach headed by SIPAG (Simula ng Pagasa) to the Dumagat Tribes in Sitio Apia, Barangay Calawis, an area relatively near, but difficult to access. With rough trails and rivers to cross, it presented a challenge to bring 400 medical volunteers and their equipment to the location and back.

Danny, who leads the SIPAG initiative, has been interacting with the people of the Dumagat tribe for months and already, he sees that their medical needs are real, and SIPAG had to find ways to bridge that need.

This problem led to an unusual collaboration between the team of Danny and the 4×4 enthusiasts led by Sam. While Sam was browsing the photos of one of Danny’s trip, he figured that a 4-5 hour hike to the Dumagat people would take only an hour with their 4×4 vehicles. Because while Danny’s team is made of seasoned hikers, the medical team they will bring along are not, and they need to reserve their energy for their tasks.

We started the day early, after prayers and a last minute planning we set out and did not waste any time. The medical teams are assigned their rides, we hiked on some parts, I eventually gave up and took the first ride that came my way. They were gracious enough to allow me to hitch, they even offered me a seat which I refused because it didn’t have seat belts.

Upon arriving in Sitio Apia, the volunteers were quick to their jobs, unloading supplies, prepping the rooms with signs and seats, no one seems to be bothered by the number of military surrounding the vicinity. We were informed from the start that insurgents operated in the area. It may also be possible that some of the people they treat were former insurgents, the plan was to give treatment to whoever came that day. No exemptions.

It was one of those rare days when the school complex was buzzing with activity as over a thousand came needing medical treatments of various kinds. Diagnosis, appropriate medicines and health advice were given that day for their physical well being. Volunteers also attended to those who are waiting to share to them God’s word and why it is equally important to life.

I decided to follow a few around, curious as to what they go through, some just simply needed medicine, while some needed treatment. Just like most medical services, there was a lot of waiting involved.

In between happenings I took time to chat and take portraits of almost everyone I run into, they were gracious to allow me the opportunity. All except for one man who didn’t want anything to do with me, I tried chatting with him but he would just flat out ignore me, until Danny came along and asked how he was, the man opened up to him like a long time friend. I realized that there are connections that will need months to build. I didn’t not let the opportunity pass though, I asked Danny to ask permission for me, which the man graciously agreed.

The 4×4 crew made use of their waiting time by sharing the gospel to the military, police and officials that were in the area. They were surprised and pleased to know that most of them are eager to listen and to make what would be the most important decision of their lives.

As those who came make their trek back home, we all make preparations to go home as well. I manage to get a ride in one of the 4x4s and I get to relax and think of all that happened that day. Thousands in one location from those that need help to those that give help. While it starts with one person to see the problem, an activity like this is the concerted effort of many. From Danny’s team, medical volunteers, the 4×4 crew, the military and police service and whoever came up to offer their time, influence, money, and expertise. This is what some would call the Body of Christ in action.

It was a long day of work, yes I would consider this work, everyone tired by glad to have been of service. While in the 4×4 heading down the rough trails and river crossings, I see a smile on the face of the driver, he said: “This is hobby with a purpose”. Yes it is, anything you do for God gains a purpose. Once we got to the paved roads, tiredness overtakes me and I fall asleep all the way until we got back to Manila.