Founded with the objective of supporting and addressing the pressing healthcare needs of underserved communities near its mining operations, the company began its medical outreach in early 1989 through its subsidiary, Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corp. (RTN-MC), its philanthropic arm RTN Foundation, and its associate, Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC).

Initially, the medical mission was modest, focusing primarily on the community near its operations. Nurse Angelita Alba, one of the pioneer volunteers, recalled that when they first arrived in Rio Tuba, the RTN Hospital where they conducted both minor and major surgeries was not well-equipped.

“There were times when we lost power during surgeries and had to rely on flashlights because once you start the surgery, you can’t stop it. Despite our equipment shortages, we made do with what was available,” Alba said.

Reflecting on her experience during last year’s mission, Alba expressed her surprise at the transformation of the hospital. What had once seemed too small to accommodate hundreds of patients had evolved into a well-equipped medical facility. The expansion included modern surgical rooms, advanced medical equipment, and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, significantly enhancing the hospital’s ability to meet the community’s growing healthcare needs.

As the medical facility developed, so did the number of volunteers. Starting with just eight members, the team has grown to 78, steadfast in their commitment.

“We are very happy with what we do; it is very rewarding, especially when we see the patients we have helped. As long as there are medical missions, I will continue to join,” said nurse Angelita Alba, one of the volunteers.

Beyond development, the true measure of success lies in the countless lives transformed by the missions. Over the past three decades, the program has assisted over 14,000 residents, addressing various conditions such as goiter, hernia, tumors, cysts, lipomas, hemorrhoids, and cleft lip and palate. For many, these missions represent their only opportunity to receive medical attention.

This year, one such patient was Jeanrey Sayron, a 15-year-old who had a breast mass removed. Her mother, Rowena Sayron, expressed her anxiety when they discovered the lump.

“Para sa amin na mahihirap, mahalaga ‘yung mga ganitong medical mission kasi wala kaming panggastos. Sabi ng mga doktor kapag nagpaopera ka sa Puerto [Princesa], opera pa lang nasa P72,000 na, wala pa ang mga gamot, kaya nagtiyaga talaga kami na makapunta dito kasi dito wala kaming ginastos,” (For families like ours, these medical missions are important because we can’t afford the expenses. The doctors said surgery in Puerto would cost around 72,000 pesos, not including medication. That’s why we were determined to come here because we didn’t have to spend anything,) Sayron shared.

Hoping to extend their impact beyond three decades, NAC remains committed to its outreach efforts. Recently, NAC in partnership with St. Luke’s Medical Center Foundation, conducted its first medical mission in Borongan, Eastern Samar, benefiting over 500 patients. To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, local healthcare workers were trained during the five-day mission.

“Our commitment to the communities we serve goes beyond our mining operations. By providing essential healthcare services, we strive to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those in need,” says Martin Antonio G. Zamora, President and CEO of Nickel Asia Corporation.