December 18, 2023
Unseen by the eyes, but felt by the heart
By Marella Saldonido
To make Blind Republic Philippines’ Christmas even merrier, Tzu Chi Philippines volunteers joined them in their celebration on December 15 in Caloocan City.
The group of blind massage therapists and street singers was formed during the height of the pandemic as they felt the need to support each other during a challenging time. It was also then that they were introduced to the Tzu Chi Foundation and became beneficiaries.
“We were very thankful to Tzu Chi at that time because they did not only help us but also gave us an opportunity to help our fellow blind people,” says Blind Republic Philippines President Ramir Sayson. Ramir and the first members of the group shared the blessings that they received from the foundation with other people in their community. Since then, the group has started to grow and gain more support, and it now has 90 members.
During the gathering, the members dedicated a song to Tzu Chi as a way to express their utmost gratitude. With the enthusiasm of their president, they were able to learn one of Tzu Chi’s songs, “Love and Care for All,” and sing it for the volunteers in attendance. “I kept repeating the song over and over again because it has such a beautiful message,” he marvels.
The celebration continued with Christmas carols performed by the present members of the group and the distribution of gifts from Tzu Chi volunteers. Each member received 10 kilograms of rice, groceries, toiletries, and clothing items, which they were utterly grateful for. “They all went home very happy. Even if some of them live a bit far, they said it was worth the travel.”
As for the Tzu Chi volunteers who came all the way from Manila to Caloocan, it was also worth the travel to see the smiles of the blind beneficiaries. Before saying goodbye, Ramir turned over his coin bank to the volunteers and hoped to help other people in need with his donation.
“It’s just a small amount, but we learned in Tzu Chi that it doesn’t matter how much we can give as long as it’s from our hearts.”
Tzu Chi Philippines volunteers join Blind Republic Philippines’ Christmas party on December 15 in Caloocan City. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Members of the Blind Republic Philippines begin to arrive at their small gathering. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Members of the Blind Republic Philippines begin to arrive at their small gathering. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Members of the Blind Republic Philippines begin to arrive at their small gathering. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Members of the Blind Republic Philippines begin to arrive at their small gathering. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Blind Republic Philippines president Ramir Sayson (center) stands with palms together with Tzu Chi volunteers as they sing Tzu Chi’s “Love and Care for All.” 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
“When it comes to helping people, Tzu Chi really finds a way to reach those in need like people with disabilities like us,” says Blind Republic Philippines President Ramir Sayson (center). 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
The group of blind street singers and massage therapists sing Christmas songs to start the joyous celebration. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteers join in the celebration. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteers Rudy Ong (left) and Luis Diamante (right) were delighted to see the generous amount of goods to be given to Blind Republic Philippines. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteer Loreto Balete carries bags of groceries to the blind beneficiaries. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteer Ati Chong carries bags of groceries to the blind beneficiaries. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Even the kind neighbors help in unloading the goods. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Sacks of 10 kilograms of rice were lined up and ready to be distributed. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Bags of groceries, toiletries, and clothing were lined up and ready to be distributed. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Blind Republic Philippines President Ramir Sayson (left) turns over his coin bank donation to Luis Diamante (right). 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
“It’s just a small amount, but we learned in Tzu Chi that it doesn’t matter how much we can give as long as it’s from our hearts,” says Blind Republic Philippines President Ramir Sayson (center). 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteer Luis Diamante holds the donated coin bank with a big smile. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Tzu Chi volunteers and members of the Blind Republic Philippines pose for a happy group shot. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】