An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) from Germany added a festive twist to his homecoming by dressing as Santa Claus to surprise mothers attending the first day of Misa de Gallo at St. Augustine Cathedral.
Visayo Balinado, a state-certified physical therapist, handed out flowers to mothers as a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, who passed away in 2005.
“Give gift, love, affection, and what makes the people happy… my idea is to wear Santa Claus to honor my mother… I give every woman a flower and it was a very nice feeling,” Balinado shared in a GMA Regional TV report, reflecting on the emotional gesture.
Balinado’s return to the Philippines isn’t just about holiday celebrations. Through his foundation, Visayo Jojo Balinado Kawanggawa, he offers free physical therapy sessions to stroke patients unable to afford private care. The initiative will continue into the new year, with a free therapy session scheduled on January 4, 2025.
“Every time I am here, I would like to pay back to the people through my knowledge in Physical Therapy… I am only the instrument of God, I share it with everybody,” he said, highlighting his mission of service inspired by his late mother.
Those interested in availing of the free sessions can reach out through the foundation’s social media page, VJB Kawanggawa.
