Bro. Eli Doles Out Free Vitamins, Medicines for MCGI Congregation

As part of his commitment to public service and to looking after the well-being of the Members Church of God International, Bro. Eli Soriano recently dispensed 1,000 boxes of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and medicines for free, especially to low-income members in the Philippines.
The distribution commenced during the Church’s celebration of its second Quarterly International Thanksgiving this year, the last week of June.

Some 1,000 boxes of Vitamin C were dispensed for free at the ADD Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga during the last week of June.

The presiding minister to MCGI noted in his sermon that the resident doctor at the ADD Polyclinic and Pharmacy in Apalit, Pampanga had requested him for all sorts of “anti’s”: antibiotics, antivirals, and the like in preparation for the three-day event.
The bulk of ascorbic acid, however, is Bro. Eli’s additional gift, after having tried Vitamin C therapy. The polyclinic and pharmacy render services and give medicines to brethren and visitors alike for free.

Members line up at the ADD Polyclinic in Apalit, Pampanga for free Vitamin C.

Bro. Eli, who in his younger years was plagued by asthma and rheumatic heart disease, asserts that Vitamin C is indeed very beneficial. Prior to endorsing the said supplement, Bro. Eli had experienced Vitamin C therapy himself.
He couples his intake with a sulfur-rich organic diet, consisting of green vegetables and bulbous roots like onions and garlic. The regimen had improved his condition, as his personal physician-dietician attested.
“I encourage all to try alternative and preventive approaches in maintaining health,” Bro. Eli said. “This is also to spare ourselves of expensive and traditional treatments we are accustomed to. Let us go for more natural ways to stay healthy.”

The ADD Polyclinic at Apalit, Pampanga is a free institution that caters to members and non-members alike.

Bro. Eli also discussed his readings of researches of scientists and experts from reputable associations about Vitamin C. Further, member doctors, dieticians, pharmacists, and chemists gave their opinion on the matter.

The discussion, Bro. Eli said, is a healthy and relevant thing, “something that allows us to know more so that we know how to serve God better and not with sickly bodies.”
Members who are experiencing heart ailments, blood pressure fluctuations, and other Vitamin C deficiency-related diseases are first to be served.

The distribution of the 1,000 boxes of Vitamin C is not the first such medical assistance rendered to the congregants by Bro. Eli Soriano. He has been rendering, together with Bro. Daniel Razon, public charity works every Saturday at the ADD Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga.

This is not the first time that Bro. Eli is giving out medical assistance, supplements, and medicines. Back in the Philippines, he led many initiatives to ensure the health and well-being of the Congregation and his fellow Filipinos.
Witnesses and beneficiaries attest to Bro. Eli’s concern, especially for children, whenever epidemics and diseases take a toll on the health of many. He supervises the administration of vaccines and distribution of medicines in the places he visits.
The efforts eventually led to more massive health campaigns and medical missions in the depressed areas in the country capital to the provincial and remotest regions. Together with Bro. Daniel Razon, his Vice Presiding Minister, their small start-off turned to a thriving charity work, inspiring similar actions here and abroad.

Even during regular Thanksgiving services, volunteer medical practitioners provide medical help and assistance to members who visit the ADD Infirmary.

Bro. Eli and Bro Daniel also introduced a mobile clinic complete with basic medical facilities, currently serving those who have to travel several kilometers to reach the nearest hospital.
The move is also of good timing since the Philippines is continuously battered by storms and other weather disturbances providing the attendant conditions for the rise of communicable diseases.
(Written by: Cecile Vizcaya)