

In a demonstration of the Army’s continued commitment to the health and readiness of the force, Col Ranulfo O Espera, the Army Chief Dental Surgeon, Philippine Army visited the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division at Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City today, May 20, 2025.
Col Espera paid a courtesy call to 4ID Commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., where they engaged in meaningful dialogue on matters concerning the provision of dental care and the sustainment of oral health services across the Division. Central to the discussion was the shared goal of maintaining operational readiness by ensuring soldiers have consistent access to high-quality dental care.
Following the courtesy call, the Chief Dental Surgeon proceeded to the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH). During the site visit, he met with dental officers, enlisted medical personnel, and civilian support staff to assess current operational conditions, review equipment readiness, and evaluate patient care workflows. The visit also allowed for a review of current dental outreach programs, preventive care initiatives, and the integration of dental services into broader health support operations.
In a statement, the 4ID Commander expressed appreciation for the visit and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and adaptive practices in medical support systems. “Military operations demand not only physical and mental toughness but also a healthcare system that can meet the demands of dynamic environments. Our goal is to ensure that no mission readiness is compromised due to preventable dental issues,” he said.