Tzu Chi Philippines Marks 30 Years of Humanitarian Impact with Housing, Health, and Hope

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation (BTCF) Philippines is commemorating three decades of humanitarian service with a renewed commitment to disaster recovery, medical outreach, and educational support. Since its establishment in 1994, Tzu Chi Philippines has provided critical relief to the most vulnerable communities across the country. Its latest milestone includes the inauguration of the Tzu Chi Palo Great Love Village, the first permanent housing project built by the organization in the Philippines.

Permanent Housing for Typhoon Survivors

In July 2024, Tzu Chi inaugurated 60 permanent homes in Palo, Leyte, constructed for survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit the Philippines. The new village replaces the temporary shelters originally built after the 2013 disaster, which left more than four million people homeless.

The Great Love Village, spanning 1.5 hectares, includes not only housing units but also a central kitchen, a vocational training center, a kindergarten and an activity center. “We give without expecting anything in return, hoping only that the disaster victims can have a place to live in peace,” said Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yunez, reflecting on the years of coordination and construction leading up to the handover.

The housing project was launched to mark both the 30th anniversary of Tzu Chi Philippines and the 10th anniversary of Typhoon Haiyan. Special attention was given to designing storm-resilient structures in consideration of future climate-related risks.

Medical Outreach Reaches Thousands

Coinciding with the housing turnover, the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) held its 265th free clinic from July 11 to 13, 2024, in Palo, Leyte. The three-day medical mission served 5,444 patients and included ophthalmology, pediatrics, internal medicine, gynecology, dentistry, acupuncture, and surgical services.

At the Leyte Provincial Hospital, six operating tables ran simultaneously, performing essential surgeries for patients who could not otherwise afford care. “Without this opportunity, patients like her might have to live with these conditions for life,” said Dr. Josefino Qua, who has been volunteering with Tzu Chi’s medical missions since the first free clinic in Baguio in 1995, about a patient who had been living with benign tumors covering her body since she couldn’t afford treatment.

Among the patients was six-year-old Yeshaa Brianna Puda, who underwent hernia surgery. “When the doctor took her away for surgery, I couldn’t stop crying—she’s finally going to be okay,” said her mother, Norvelyn Rivas.

Tzu Chi’s medical program has grown significantly over the decades. From a first clinic in Baguio—173 surgeries in a borrowed Lions Club venue in 1995—it has evolved into one of the foundation’s strongest pillars in the Philippines, often serving thousands in a single clinic. Over 30 years of missions, a total of over 320,000 patients have been served. Volunteers, including many elderly and long-serving members, continue to dedicate their time to providing compassionate care. “Whenever there’s a Tzu Chi mission, I’m ready and happy to help,” said 90year-old volunteer Anselma Chua.

Educational Support Through Community Engagement

On July 21, Tzu Chi Philippines held its inaugural charity run in Quezon City, drawing 6,000 participants. Proceeds were allocated to support the foundation’s educational scholarship program, which has provided more than 16,000 scholarships since 1995.

The event attracted a predominantly young crowd, with 60% of participants between the ages of 25 and 35. “for every fifty participants, we can cover one student’s tuition for a year!” said volunteer Peggy Sy.

Christine, a scholarship recipient, emphasized the transformative power of Tzu Chi’s support. “Their support has been a great source of inspiration,” she stated. “It’s helped us become better individuals.”

Continuing the Mission

While reflecting on three decades of service, Tzu Chi Philippines also looks forward. From post-disaster housing to long-term educational support and healthcare access, the foundation remains committed to holistic and compassionate assistance.

Reflecting on his predecessors, CEO Henry Yunez said, “Their efforts paved the way, allowing more volunteers to join us, more branches to be established, and more people to be helped.” As the organization celebrates its history, it continues running forward into the future.

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation is a global non-profit humanitarian organization founded in 1966 by Buddhist nun Dharma Master Cheng Yen. Its missions of medicine, charity, education, and humanistic culture have brought relief to 136 countries. The heart of Tzu Chi is embedded in its name: in Chinese, “Tzu” means compassion and “Chi” relief, to relieve the suffering of those in need while creating a better world for all through compassion, love and hope. For more information, visit global.tzuchi.org. For additional information and media inquiries, welcome to contact us through this form.