PHI LAUDED BY MANILA CITY GOVERNMENT FOR WHEELCHAIR PROJECT

by Bud Omar, PHI '08B

On June 22, 2009, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim commended the Phi Kappa Mu fraternity of the UP College of Medicine in fitting ceremonies held at the Manila City Hall for its flagship project, Empowerment through Mobility. Started in 2007 through the efforts of California-based brother Dr. Rufino Co and in coordination with the faith-based non-profit organization Free Wheel Chair Mission, the project aims to provide wheelchairs for indigents needing ambulatory assistance in the developing countries. To date, the fraternity has donated nearly 500 wheelchairs to the City of Manila alone.

Mayor Lim delivered a heartfelt speech of gratitude in front of Manila City Hall officials and employees commending the fraternity for its passionate and united effort in helping the differently-abled become more functional members of society. A plaque of appreciation was received by fraternity members led by Brother Prior Leonard Christopher T. Sena of UPCM Class 2012.

During its first run, 550 prefabricated wheelchairs were distributed by the fraternity to hospitals and local governments from Quezon, Olongapo, Mindoro, Palawan and Lanao, among other farflung provinces. Now on its second run this year, another 1100 wheelchairs have already been shipped and are planned for distribution to partner institutions across the country.