Cleft deformities remain an overlooked health concern in the Philippines, affecting approximately 1 in every 500 births. The usual cost of the cleft surgery in a regular hospital in our country is USD 4,000 to USD 6,000 per child, which is way too expensive for the patient’s family who barely makes USD 8 a day.

Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc. (SGF) is a non-government organization based in Miag-ao, Iloilo, Philippines, committed to advancing science-based, community-driven programs that promote environmental conservation, heritage preservation, and public health across the islands of Panay in the Philippines.

One of our patients before and after surgery

Since 2014, SGF, Medical Mission Matters Philippines, and partners have accomplished 6,912 cleft surgeries in Panay and throughout Visayas and Mindanao in the Philippines with 100% success and without any single adverse problems. SGF is able to trim the cost of the operation per child to USD 600, without compromising safety and quality of care. This was made possible because of our highly skilled plastic surgeons, nurses and support staff. Each child and parent are picked up by mission staff or the Philippine Army, mostly from far-flung villages and then brought to the mission hospital.

Our Head Surgeon, Dr. Leah Velasco-Victorio, operating on one of the patients

They are also accompanied when they return to their villages after the mission. Food and housing for the families are also provided. These efforts directly address the urgent healthcare gap faced by children born with such deformities, especially in remote and low- income communities.

The 60,000 USD goal will fund the operation of 100 patients. If funds exceed this amount, we will be able to cater more kids with cleft conditions.

HELP US SAVE A CHILD'S FUTURE WITH FREE CLEFT LIP PALATE SURGERY. There are more than 500 children waiting.

Sulu Garden Foundation undertakes the Free Surgical Mission at the cost of USD 600 per child.

To learn more of our medical mission initiatives, please explore our website. Or you can visit our Facebook Page and YouTube channel.

Note: Images shared in this message were provided with permission from the families and individuals featured, who support our mission to raise awareness and inspire action.