gv, the rice crisis in the Philippines is more of a hoax, pls. don't be fooled. plus the brothers have their own small farm where they grow and other foods. what they don't have is money for the trip.
Anyhow none is being obliged by this appeal but it is indeed charity to let them at least see a portion of the rich heritage of their faith.
pilgrimages are known to pour lot of graces to devout pilgrims by the way...