HUMAN existence begins with the 'breath of life' and our life's journey begins if we live it. While we traverse different paths, we all eventually undergo the same process in fulfilling our life-long goals. In a sense, life pertains to living organisms but it is not, however, limited to them because it could also mean the birth of religions, schools, entities or concepts.
The Medical Outreach Missions Foundation Inc. (Momfi) was born on March 7, 1985 through the efforts of Dr. Romeo O. Abiog and Dr. Leovigildo B. Domingo, and with the full support of Saint Louis University and the Vicariate of the Mountain Provinces then headed by the late Msgr. William Brasseur who became the prime inspiration behind Momfi’s formation.
Its beginnings kicked off with the first medical and surgical mission in Banaue, Ifugao in May 1985. Indeed, it is a journey of selfless service regardless where and who are to be served, most often surpassing the risks to life and limbs, and other difficulties.
For the past 24 years, Momfi has served most of the Cordillera region, nearby provinces including Zambales (after Mt. Pinatubo's eruption), other parts of northern Luzon, Camarines Sur and Maguindanao.
Momfi’s operations are guided by its vision/mission that reads: "We envision the SLU-Vicariate of the Mt. Provinces Medical Outreach Missions Foundation, Inc. as an exemplary missionary and innovative guild in reaching out to the most marginalized population and in developing volunteers empowered by the Momfi spirit and who are altruistic, assiduous and trustworthy."
Now on its 25th year, its 'journey' of reaching out to the most marginalized sectors of the Cordillera region goes on, thus proving that obstacles are indeed surmountable.
Momfi’s anniversary year jump started with the induction of the new set of officers for 2010-1011 of the Momfi Volunteers last February 22. What do we gain from being Momfi volunteers? Foremost is being able to help people physically and emotionally, learning from both our SLU mentors and from the rural folks, and most importantly, experiencing the happiness and satisfaction of serving God.
Last March 6, Baguio City Jail inmates benefited from a Momfi medical mission, in cooperation with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, and in connection with the launch of the Justice on Wheels Program of the Supreme Court.
Annual trainings are done for the MOMFI team members to be fully oriented before any new batch of mission starts. The Continuing Medical and Missionary Education for the whole Momfi team is scheduled on March 21 to 22 in preparation for the medical/surgical mission in Calanasan, Apayao on March 26 to 28.
The succeeding missions this summer are still being finalized such as the one planned for our adopted barangays in Naguey and Pasdong, Atok.
To formally celebrate Momfi's 25th anniversary, all members and alumni of Momfi are invited to attend the anniversary program on June 4 at 6 p.m. at the Baguio Country Club.
You may contact the Momfi office: (074) 442-5700 (to 02), local 570; or e-mail: momfi@slu.edu.ph, robert_tolenz@yahoo.com.ph and roabiog@yahoo.com. (Chester Leslie G. Pelwigan)