As an activity to support the well-being of people in conflict-affected areas under the unit’s Area of Operation prioritizing the hinterlands, the unit spearheaded the conduct of two medical missions specifically in Sitio Hingles, Barangay San Francisco in Sta Catalina and in Sitio Salingkubong, Barangay Tayak, Siaton last April 9 and 16 respectively with more or less 1000 beneficiaries.
The missions were designed to demonstrate the spirit of IPSP “Bayanihan” with the aim of winning the peace as stakeholders were called to participate in the realization of the project.
The Provincial government, MBAI, Globe TeleCom, Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines Cares Foundation from Manila, Siaton and Sta Catalina LGU and volunteer nurses and doctors from the NOPH and the 703rd Reservists among others helped in the cause which benefited hundreds of people in a way or another thru the different services offered like free medical consultations, dental operations, circumcision, free medicines and vitamins, free-feeding, haircut and massage.
In his message during one of the missions, Gov Roel Degamo lauded the act of the 79IB both for orchestrating and putting into realization projects of the likes which serve the best interests of his constituents. He vowed to support the same future plans of the unit and expressed his strong desire to help the “Bayanihan “ project in order to rid his province of insurgency and in order to give peace a chance that will trigger the acceleration of development. He further gave emphasis calling upon rebels or the NPAs to lay down their arms and join the mainstream society and avail the programs of the government for rebel returnees for armed struggle has no place in the province of Negros Oriental.
LTCol Marion Sison, the unit’s Commanding Officer expressed optimism that with more and more people supporting “Bayanihan”, the prospects for achieving peace and development would shine brighter, and as it does, generates stronger social pressure unfavorable for armed insurgents. (PR)
