In a powerful testament to its 35-year legacy of innovation and empathy, Belo Medical Group officially launched The Scar Project—a groundbreaking initiative rooted in medical expertise and a deep understanding of the emotional weight scars can carry.
Held at The Estate in Makati, the launch brought together media, advocates, and ambassadors to spotlight a truth often left unspoken: behind every scar is a story—and every story deserves healing.
A Mission Years in the Making
At the heart of The Scar Project is a mission shaped by decades of research, a multidisciplinary team of specialists, and a profound connection with patients.
“This initiative is the result of decades of researching the best treatments, assembling the best team of doctors, and truly listening to our patients,” said Dr. Vicki Belo, founder and medical director of Belo Medical Group.
“Scars are some of the most difficult conditions to treat. But sometimes, life happens—and when it does, we want to be the experts you can count on. Not just to treat the scar, but to walk with you through the healing.”
Having been bullied for her appearance in her youth, Dr. Belo brings both personal empathy and professional excellence to the initiative. She understands that healing goes beyond the physical — it’s a restoration of dignity, confidence, and self-worth.
Dr. Hayden Kho, Managing Director of Belo Medical Group, emphasized the emotional impact of this endeavor:
“This project is for those who feel stuck in the past because of the scars they see in the mirror every day. It’s for those who’ve done the inner work, but still carry the outer reminder of something painful. This is our way of giving back.”
A Call for Seven Brave Stories
As part of its mission, The Scar Project is searching for seven individuals with visible scars and powerful stories.
These selected participants will receive personalized, world-class care from a volunteer team of dermatologists, reconstructive surgeons, and mental health professionals—focused not just on physical treatment, but on restoring confidence, wholeness, and healing.
A United Voice for Healing
The launch also introduced The Scar Project ambassadors, led by Catriona Gray and Alden Richards, who lent their voices to the campaign’s call for compassion and courage. Their message was clear: healing is possible, and no one should walk the journey alone.
Experts in Compassionate Care
In a panel discussion moderated by Korina Sanchez-Roxas, the project’s core medical team shared insights into the complexity of scar treatment. The panel included:
– Dr. Lutgardo Caparas Jr. (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery)
– Dr. Dax Carlo Pascasio (Craniofacial Surgery)
– Dr. Gary Bunagan (Oculoplastic Surgery)
– Dr. Joan Mae G. Perez-Rifareal (Psychiatry)
Together, they emphasized that true healing requires more than technical skill—it demands collaboration, compassion, and care that sees the whole person.
A Story That Moved the Room
One of the most powerful moments of the event came from the story of Rissan Mueslos, personal driver to actor Piolo Pascual. After surviving a traumatic facial accident, Rissan’s remarkable recovery—shared by his doctor—stood as a real-life example of how advanced care and emotional support can transform lives.
His journey captures the very essence of The Scar Project: not just erasing wounds, but restoring humanity.
With this initiative, Belo Medical Group reaffirms its mission: to help people become the best version of themselves—not by hiding their past, but by honoring it, and making way for a future of hope, confidence, and healing.
The Scar Project is a commitment to walk alongside those who carry their scars every day, offering not just treatment, but understanding.
Applications are now open for those ready to share their story and begin their healing journey. Submit your stories at https://www.beloscarproject.com/. Follow The Belo Scar Project on Instagram and Facebook for more information.
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