March 4, 2026
Tzu Chi, Primer Group of Companies hold fundraising bazaar for hospital construction
By Nicole Fetalcorin
Healthcare is a basic human right, but in the Philippines, healthcare appears to be a privilege afforded only to a few. Families line up in crowded charity clinics, parents worry about whether they can afford medicine for their sick children, and too many lives are lost simply because help came too late, if at all.
For decades, Filipinos have carried this burden, choosing between survival and treatment, between food on the table and a doctor’s visit.
But love has a way of breaking through despair.
From February 27 to March 1, the Tzu Chi Foundation brought together a community bound by compassion in a three-day fundraising event for the construction of the Tzu Chi General Hospital.
This hospital is more than a building; it is a lifeline. It is a promise that no Filipino should be left behind when it comes to accessing quality, affordable healthcare.
The event was made possible through a partnership with the Primer Group of Companies, which offered up to 50% discounts on premium brands of clothing, accessories, outdoor gear, and wellness products.
Shoppers came for the bargains, but they left with something far greater: the knowledge that every purchase was an act of giving, a step toward the construction of a hospital that will serve thousands.
“It feels good knowing that what we’re buying today actually helps other people. Hopefully there’ll be more events like this in the future so even more people can benefit,” said Maria Nerissa Yanna B. Carlos from San Juan City.
“This is a very noble mission for Tzu Chi. Everything they do really has meaning. We’re excited for more activities like this in the future—bazaars where you’re not just shopping, but also helping others,” said Cathy Tan, a supporter of Tzu Chi initiatives.
The Tzu Chi Foundation has long been a beacon of humanitarian service, guided by compassion and relief. The planned hospital embodies those values, aiming not only to provide medical care but also to restore dignity and hope to families who have long been deprived of a better healthcare system.
As the event drew to a close, what remained was not just the tally of funds raised, but the powerful reminder that change begins when communities come together. The Tzu Chi General Hospital will rise from these collective efforts, brick by brick, gift by gift, love by love.
And when its doors finally open, it will stand as a testament to what Filipinos can achieve when united by compassion—a gift of healing, a gift of love, and a future where everyone enjoys the right to receive proper healthcare.
An official promotional banner for the Tzu Chi charity bazaar was displayed at the entrance of Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus.
Jerry Sy (left) the managing director and co-founder of Primer Group of Companies, and Tzu Chi Philippines’ CEO Henry Yuñez lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Primer Group of Companies Managing DirectorJerry Sy extends his gratitude to everyone who attended the event and to the Tzu Chi Foundation for their support.
A bustling crowd explores various stalls at the Tzu Chi bazaar.
A wide selection of premium apparel is neatly displayed for shoppers.
A visitor carefully browses through the variety of bags on sale.
Stylish shoes and sandals are arranged for easy shopping.
Essential wellness products are available at discounted prices.
Rows of colorful suitcases await travelers looking for a deal at the Tzu Chi bazaar.
A shopper checks out a footwear at the DC stall.
Free scalp analysis was offered to Tzu Chi bazaar visitors.
An exciting variety of bags, accessories, clothing, and more awaited buyers at the three-day fundraising event.