Rotary's Smile Initiative: A Mission of Delivering Free Dental Services for a Healthier Tomorrow

Rotary International remains steadfast in its dedication to causes that foster international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world in support of peace and the eradication of polio. The organization's seven areas of focus include Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution, Disease Prevention and Treatment, Water and Sanitation, Maternal and Child Health, Basic Education and Literacy, and Economic and Community Development. With this commitment, the Rotary Club of Central Davao, in partnership with the Phillips Renner Foundation, conducted a three-day consecutive Dental Mission across various rural areas in Davao City, providing much-needed oral healthcare services to children in underserved communities.

Drs. Robert Renner and Purobi Phillips founded the Phillips Renner Foundation with a mission to provide free dental care to children worldwide. As a public charity, the foundation works tirelessly to reduce inequities in nutrition, dental care, and education, offering high-impact health services and essential products to the world’s most impoverished communities. Sharing the same vision, the Rotary Club of Central Davao joined forces with the Phillips Renner Foundation to make a tangible impact in Davao City. This noble initiative began in February 2024 with a successful Dental Mission at Tamugan Elementary School in Marilog, Davao City, an institution adopted by the Rotary Club of Central Davao. Encouraged by the positive results, the mission was carried forward into 2025, expanding to new locations to reach more children in need.

The dental mission specifically catered to children aged 3 to 18 years old, ensuring they receive necessary dental treatments to prevent and address oral health issues. On February 6, 2025, the mission was held at Marilog National High School of Agriculture, Brgy. Datu Salumay, where a total of 191 children were seen, 79 received treatment, and 25 cases of abscess/pulp polyps were addressed. The following day, February 7, 2025, the team proceeded to Titogop Elementary School, Sitio Titogop, Brgy. Malamba, Marilog, Davao City, attending to 63 children, treating 43 of them, and addressing 19 cases of abscess/pulp polyps. On February 8, 2025, the final day of the mission took place at the Rotary Club of Central Davao Day Care Center in Tibungco, Davao City, where 90 children were seen, 76 received treatment, and 20 cases of abscess/pulp polyps were treated.

This initiative is conducted every February in celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, reinforcing the importance of oral health for children and ensuring continued access to essential dental care. Through this initiative, the Rotary Club of Central Davao and the Phillips Renner Foundation have significantly contributed to improving the oral health of children in remote areas. By providing essential dental care, they not only addressed immediate health concerns but also fostered a culture of preventive healthcare, ensuring that children can lead healthier lives free from the pain of untreated dental issues.

The partnership between these two organizations exemplifies the power of collaboration in humanitarian efforts. With continued support and dedication, both the Rotary Club of Central Davao and the Phillips Renner Foundation aim to expand their reach and impact, bringing smiles to more children in need. This successful three-day Dental Mission is a testament to Rotary's enduring commitment to service above self and the shared vision of making healthcare accessible to all.

Written by: Relyn A. Abasolo, LPT