MANILA, Philippines – Ahead of the 75th anniversary of the Korean War's outbreak on June 25, a South Korean medical team visited the Philippines to provide compassionate medical services to Korean War veterans and their families. This service, led by the Jaseng Medical Foundation, brought hope to veterans suffering from musculoskeletal pain in difficult conditions. It was a meaningful occasion that demonstrated South Korea's unwavering gratitude and spirit of reciprocity toward the nations that participated in the war.
Many in the Philippines suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain due to the hot and humid climate and inadequate medical infrastructure. Korean War veterans, in particular, often do not receive proper treatment despite their advanced age. In this reality, the visit of the Korean medical team was like a welcome rain during a drought. A large crowd gathered from early in the morning when the medical service began, clearly showing the local community's thirst for medical care.
Prudencio Manuel, a veteran who participated in this medical service, had been suffering from back pain that had radiated down to his feet for a long time. The Korean medical team meticulously checked his surgical history and current medications before treatment, thoroughly examining his health condition. For patients who feared acupuncture, they provided personalized care, such as cupping and prescribing customized herbal medicine, tailored to each individual's situation.
Nick Reswellio, a family member of a veteran, expressed satisfaction, saying, "My back and knees hurt today, but they feel much better now. I am truly grateful to the Korean medical team." Won Seo-jin, a Korean exchange student active locally, also participated as a volunteer, assisting with interpretation and caring for the veterans' families. She remarked, "It was a very meaningful and significant time treating and interpreting for many veterans and their families. It was a great experience as a student." The Philippine chapter of the Veterans Association also actively supported this service, adding to its significance.
Dr. Shin Min-sik, chairman of the Jaseng Medical Foundation's Social Contribution Committee, stated, "We treated several veterans who are 94-95 years old and their descendants." He added, "Many suffered because they missed the timing for non-surgical treatment, and I feel a great sense of reward seeing their pain alleviated and their condition improve through today's treatment." Through this service, approximately 150 people, including veterans, their families, and neighboring residents, received treatment, and bright smiles appeared on the faces of those who had been in a blind spot for medical benefits.
The Jaseng Medical Foundation has been at the forefront of social contribution activities for veterans, both domestically and internationally, having received the Veterans Culture Award last year for its support of independence activists and veteran families. The foundation promised, "We will continue our medical outreach activities for overseas veterans' families," expressing South Korea's unchanging respect and gratitude toward the participating nations. This medical service in the Philippines was more than just treating illnesses; it was a meaningful opportunity to offer warm comfort and respect to forgotten heroes and to awaken future generations to the value of patriotism and remembrance. This service, which reaffirmed the strong bond between South Korea and the participating nations, will continue in the future.
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