Sgt. Eric Pollock, left, and Major Yince Loh talk to a medical professional in downtown Bermel. Loh, who has worked with US Special Forces fighting al Qaeda affiliates in the Philippines, wants to introduce "basic medical and nutritional development projects" to Bermel, which still has open sewers and is without electricity or running water. (Philip Smucker/MCT) (Philip Smucker / MCT)