MARAMAG, Bukidnon- An Army Santa delivers gifts to the Umayamnon Tribe in Sitio Calakapan, Brgy Mandahikan, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon last December 26, 2020.
The said gift-giving program is an initiative of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army under the Command of MGen Andres C Centino PA in collaboration with its peace and development partners. The program aims to distribute gift packs and other assistance in selected far-flung community of Bukidnon to show them how the government and the community cares for them and celebrate Christmas more meaningful than usual.
150 Indigenous children received a gift pack composed of 1 school Bag which contain pencil, crayons, sharpener, notebooks, toys and snacks. The said materials were sponsored by several stakeholders through Army’s Operation Christmas Drop program at Sitio Calakapan, Mandahikan, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon. Also, 105 families were given food packs from DSWD. The assorted food packs were composed of five (5) kilos of rice, five (5) cans of sardines and a dozen (12) of Kopiko Brown Coffee. All of these gifts were given by Santa with a transportation of a Huey Helicopter by the Philippine Airforce.
Marisa Dagno, the sitio leader expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Philippine Army that despite its distance, intemperate weather and arduous road, uncountable blessings and happiness arrived in their sitio. She further said, “Dako kaayo mi og kalipay nga naassign diri sa among komunidad na gitagaan ang matag pamilya og pamaskong handog og dako ang kalipay sa mga kabataan nga nadawat nila ang pang skwela na bag. Sa tanan sa 88IB og sa 4ID, daghan kaayo among pasalamat sa inyuhang paghatag og kalipay sa among tribo.” (We are very happy that the troops who are assigned here gave each family a gift and we are very thankful as well as the youths/children for what they have receive, a bag with school supplies. To all 88IB troopers and 4th Infantry Division as well, thank you for giving delight in our tribe.) Lt. Col. Franklin F Fabic emphasized that the Army endured all hardships and persevere to go in Sitio Calakapan to show them that the government have never forget those who are in the far-flung areas to bring joy and hope for this holiday. He further said, “We would like to extend the Christmas spirit to our IP community. I would also like to ensure you that the government is here to support you. May these gifts bring joy to all of you here. Let us celebrate Christmas merrily. Continue to support the government as well because we will do what we can in order to help and support your community. May you have prosperous and peaceful New Year.”
