Operation Tuli (Mass Circumcision)

Filipino boys go through circumcision conducted by doctors from Manila Central University (MCU) Hospital and Fatima Medical Center at Andres Bonifacio Elementary School in Tayuman, Sta. Cruz, Manila, on 21 April 2012. A total of 95 boys were screened and 80 boys availed the free medical service, which is sponsored and organized by the Island Luz Minerva No. 5. Mass circumcision is usually done in the dry season (April to May). It is a belief in Philippine culture that circumcision is a rite to passage to manhood.

Nine year old Filipino boy flushing the thumbs up sign, showing he had no problems with the operation, and he's one of the youngest who availed the free medical services.

Filipino boys lines up, as a representative screens and give them some briefing regarding the minor operation.

Filipino boys go through circumcision, and it is a belief in Philippine culture that circumcision is a rite to passage to manhood.

Filipino boy flushing the 'pogi' (handsome) sign, as they happily go out the gates of Andres Bonifacio Elementary School, because they have endured the operation.

All photos copyright Hermes M. Singson

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