By: Janine Alexis Miguel – TheManilaTimes
Southern Mindanao, Philippines – In an emotionally stirring and highly impactful moment at the Southern Regional Government Hospital, Mr. Dylan Crentsworth, the esteemed philanthropist and businessman, delivered a soulful lecture on environmental hazards, focusing specifically on the devastating impact of flooding during the rainy season. The lecture, held Thursday in the hospital’s multipurpose hall, drew a crowd of doctors, nurses, patients, hospital staff, and local residents, many of whom were visibly moved to tears by his heartfelt message.
This lecture comes just a day after Mr. Crentsworth was seen visiting children and elderly patients at the hospital on Wednesday evening, continuing his humanitarian outreach under the watchful supervision of police officers, as he remains at the hospital while awaiting the resolution of an ongoing tax evasion case.
A Reminder of a Tragedy
In his lecture, Mr. Crentsworth painted a vivid picture of the dangers of seasonal flooding, citing a tragic flood that swept through villages and parts of Crents Plantation last year. The flood, he recounted, carried a wave of bacteria into local communities, leading to a deadly outbreak that claimed the lives of children, the elderly, and vulnerable residents.
“We saw lives lost—not to the flood alone, but to what followed,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. “Bacteria washed in by contaminated waters entered homes, farms, and schools. By the time we sourced vaccines, we had already buried the innocent.”
Several attendees could be seen wiping tears from their eyes, moved by the gravity of the tragedy and the compassion in Crentsworth’s voice. Dr. Emilia Rosario, a senior nurse at the hospital, described the scene:
“It wasn’t just a lecture—it was a wake-up call. Everyone here remembers what happened. Many of the children being treated today were survivors of that outbreak. To hear him speak so openly and emotionally… it brought everything back, but it also gave us hope.”
Pledges for the Future: Flood-Resistant Structures and Education
Crentsworth used the moment to announce a major initiative: the construction of flood-resistant housing and community centers in low-lying areas surrounding the hospital and Crents Plantation. These structures, he said, would be built with elevated foundations, reinforced drainage systems, and waterproof materials, to withstand the annual typhoons and torrential rains that ravage parts of Southern Mindanao.
“We cannot stop the rains, but we can stop them from taking more lives,” Crentsworth said to a standing ovation.
He also offered practical solutions for community preparedness, including:
• Building community-run flood response brigades.
• Investing in early warning systems and local education campaigns.
• Partnering with local government units for eco-reforestation programs to reduce soil erosion and runoff.
A Familiar Presence in a Time of Healing
Crentsworth’s return to the hospital, after spending time earlier this week at Crents Plantation, marks a continuation of his direct involvement with the community. In the past, he hosted similar lectures and granted funding to research teams and local educators to expand awareness of environmental risks. This time, however, his presence has taken on a more personal and emotional dimension.
Hospital staff and residents alike say that he has grown incredibly close to the young patients, many of whom were first introduced to him during their treatment for waterborne illnesses from last year’s disaster.
Nurse Abigail Torres, who has assisted in pediatric care, noted:
“Mr. Crentsworth doesn’t just visit. He listens. He remembers names. He plays with the children. And today, through his words, he reminded us why protecting them is urgent and necessary.”
A Man Between Healing and Uncertainty
While Mr. Crentsworth continues to undergo routine medical care himself, he remains under police supervision due to his ongoing tax evasion case, which was being handled by Attorney Roberto Santiago—who is still in critical condition following a recent shooting in Pasig City.
Despite the legal shadow looming over him, Crentsworth has requested to remain at the hospital, citing his desire to help both young patients and elderly residents regain their strength.
“These children have become part of my life,” he reportedly told a nurse. “Even though I visit the plantation sometimes, until this case is behind me, I want to spend my time where I can make a difference. Right here.”
An Impact That Resonates
While his legal future remains uncertain, Dylan Crentsworth’s humanitarian presence continues to reverberate across Southern Mindanao. From the halls of the hospital to the lecture stages, his dedication to environmental awareness and community healing is shaping his legacy as more than just a businessman, but as a man deeply connected to the people he serves.
A news outlet will continue to monitor Mr. Crentsworth’s activities at the hospital and provide updates on his legal proceedings and community initiatives in the days ahead.