Faith, Nobility, and Charity in Action: Sydney Shriners Aid the Philippines

07 April 25

The Sydney Shrine Club (ACRUX) had a mission: to make a meaningful impact beyond Australian shores.

Under the leadership of its President, Noble Dr. Raul Amor, and guided by the values of Faith, Nobility, & Charity, the club rallied its members around a single, heartfelt goal—delivering critical medical equipment to those in need.

As the vision took shape, the members of the Sydney Shrine Club committed themselves to something greater than any one individual. This wasn’t just a donation; it was a coordinated effort grounded in Masonic brotherhood and service, and inspired by the centuries-old tradition of helping others.

The result was a 40-foot container filled with vital medical supplies—equipment that will soon find its way to the Philippines. Its final destination: the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Finance Center, located in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. These supplies will support AFP hospitals, which serve not only military personnel, but also civilians during natural disasters, health crises, and national emergencies.

This effort marks the Sydney Shrine Club’s first major humanitarian project since its official chartering, with formal recognition of the then Grand Master MW Bro Les Hicks, himself a proud member of the Club. But while this may be the Club’s first major initiative, it continues a long-standing tradition of charity by Shriners in New South Wales, who have extended support to the Philippines over many years through various acts of goodwill.

Choosing the AFP hospitals as the recipient was no accident. The Shriners recognised the AFP’s unwavering dedication to serve not just the nation’s defenders, but also its citizens in times of greatest need. By strengthening the hands that heal, the Sydney Shrine Club hopes to support a healthcare system that protects lives and restores dignity—one patient at a time.

This donation is more than equipment—it’s a symbol of compassion without borders, of brotherhood that transcends nationality, and of service that speaks louder than words.

Shriners are known worldwide for their charitable works, especially in healthcare, and every Shriner is first a Master Mason. It’s from the lessons and values of Freemasonry that this spirit of service begins—one that finds expression in acts of kindness like this one.