Bishop Ruperto C. Santos with representatives of donors Jollibee-Bataan, Café Carlos and the Drug Association of Bataan poses with cancer-afflicted children and their parents. Photo by Ernie Esconde
BALANGA CITY — The Diocese of Balanga on Wednesday treated children afflicted with cancer to a day of love and care at the Residencia Sacerdotal here.
Bataan Bishop Ruperto C. Santos said 16 children were another batch of children undertaking weekly chemotherapy at the residencia or home for retired priests.
The prelate said they offered the place to the provincial government for the chemotherapy session of children after the Bataan General Hospital was designated as exclusive facility for coronavirus disease cases.
“Today, we make it very meaningful for the children–patients. Instead of sadness and cries, we would like them to smile, even to laugh,” Santos said.
He said they asked Jollibee–Bataan for toys and chicken joy for the children and their mothers.
The Drugstore Association of Bataan through Yolando Capili provided vitamins and gift items while Cafe Carlos gave cookies and drinks.
“Inspite of their sufferings, we have to bring not only hope and healing but also happiness to the children. Even with fragile bodies, we want to bring back smiles on their lips,” the prelate said.
It is our desire with this Covid- 19 to make sure the parents feel that the Church in partnership with the provincial government care for and love them. Ours is their home,” Santos said.
