CITY OF MANILA – Officials of World Medical Relief Asia (WMRA) met with Bureau of Customs officials on Wednesday finding ways for the prompt release of medical donations from the United States.
Ambassador of Health Irineo “Bong” Alvaro, Jr. met with BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero at the latter’s office at the Port Area here.
“We are thankful to BOC Commissioner for finding the time to meet with a group like ours where outreach missions and charitable activities are given importance,” Alvaro said.
Guerrero said the agency supports endeavors for charities especially donations from abroad for humanitarian efforts in the Philippines.
The meeting tackled the proposed One Stop Shop of the BoC, various government policies, rules and regulations on importations, particularly those intended as donations to charities.
It was also part of the preparations of WMRA in serving as conduit for Michigan-based World Medical Relief, Inc. (WMRI).
Alvaro was recently appointed by WMRI President and CEO George Samson as Ambassador of Health during simple oath taking ceremonies held at Midori Hotel in Clark.
WMRI is a 66-year old charity non-government organization that has been donating hospital equipment and medical supplies to about 120 countries.
Alvaro said that it has also set subsequent meetings with other government agencies such as the Departments of Health, Trade and Industry and Social Welfare and Development.
“We are glad that government officials like the commissioner see the urgency of donations that are meant to help extend life of those who are in severe illness.” Alvaro said.
The meetings are intended to help facilitate on-time release of donations to needy and deserving communities and individuals.
Alvaro was joined by volunteers of WMRA that included Frankie Villanueva, Dra. Carmelita Torno, Rev. Fr. Paul Silva, WMRI Press Officer Noel Tulabut.
Also present in the discussions were Danny Consumido, executive Director of Bridges for Benevolent Initiatives Foundation (BBIF), Enix Salvador, Jeff Del Mundo and Justin Gozun. Recently, WMRA and BBIF donated more than P2 million worth of relief goods, medical supplies and medicines to victims of Taal volcano eruptions in Batangas.