WESCOM marks AFP anniversary with humanitarian mission

ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Jan 3 (PIA) – As it marks the 76^th founding anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Western Command (WESCOM) conducted a humanitarian mission at Sitio Tagkawayan, Bgy Bacungan, Puerto Princesa City to further affirm its commitment not only as guardian of the people but as a strong partner in development as well.

The 6^th Civil Relations Group of the AFP reported that WESCOM gave free basic health, social and other services to the residents of the said village, giving foremost attention to the needs of the Indigenous People (IP) of the community.

Besides giving basic medical check-up and dental services, the humanitarian team of soldiers also offered free circumcision and haircut.

A supplemental feeding program was also conducted to ensure that the patients waiting to avail the services offered in the community outreach project would be properly nourished.

The 570^th Composite Tactical Wing (CTW) sent a medical and a dental team while another dental team was provided by the Naval Forces West (NFW). Two other medical teams were provided by the Camp General Artemio Ricarte Station Hospital (CGARSH).

At least 300 residents of the village benefited from the medical and dental outreach program while a minor surgery has been performed free on one of the patients.

The AFP celebrates its founding anniversary on December 21. The humanitarian mission held to commemorate the founding anniversary of the military reflected the encompassing role that the armed forces play: from being safe-keepers of peace and security to active players in bringing government services to promote the general welfare of the public, especially since it has started implementing the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan at the beginning of the year.

With IPSP Bayanihan as the guideline for its action plans, the military has shifted its efforts in fighting insurgency and other internal security threats by addressing the root causes of these problems.

It has tied-up with different government agencies, civil organizations and private groups to bring developmental projects and programs particularly to the far-flung and impoverished areas with the belief that peace and progress can be attained though the concerted efforts of all the stakeholders. (6CRGAFP/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)