THE 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion of the Philippine Army, based in Miagao, Iloilo, provided free medical services and military training to residents and students in Iloilo on April 27, 2025.
In Barangay San Isidro, Jaro District, Iloilo City, the battalion took part in a medical mission organized by the Parish Social Action Ministry of Saint Joseph the Worker Parish Church.
The mission provided free services to 251 residents, including 130 medical consultations, 80 optical services, and 41 haircuts. The activity aimed to address the basic health needs of underserved members of the community.
The medical mission was made possible through the efforts of medical professionals and volunteers, including Dr. Ma. Cristina Fuentebella Basco, Dr. Jonalyn Gonzales, Dr. Nenita Dimatulac, Dr. Sonia Juan Lao, Dr. Ma. Lina Navarro, Dr. Genevieve Gonzales, Dr. Remo Benliro, Dr. Joey Dela Cruz, and Dr. Santia Bernasol. Volunteer doctors from the Jaro Archdiocesan Social Action Center (JASAC) and members of the Parish Social Action Ministry, led by Monsignor Meliton Bedia Oso, also supported the event.
On the same day, the battalion also conducted a training session for 300 Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) cadets at the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U), Miagao Campus.
The training focused on small unit tactics and included lectures and practical exercises aimed at improving cadet readiness for the 2025 Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI).
The full-day session covered coordination, basic combat skills, and leadership in challenging situations. The Army stated that the training aims to prepare cadets not only for national defense duties but also to become disciplined and service-oriented leaders in their communities. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)