MISSIONARIES from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with assistance from soldiers of the 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion (82IB) based in Camp Jizmundo, Barangay Libas, Banga, Aklan, delivered essential educational materials to indigenous peoples (IP) learners at Maytaraw Primary School in Sitio Maytaraw, Barangay Dalagsa-an, Libacao, Aklan on July 8, 2025.
Soldiers from the 82IB, headed by Lieutenant Colonel Jovert Pimentel, escorted the humanitarian team and carried supplies across steep and rugged terrain to ensure the safety of the group during the four- to five-hour trek under the intense heat of the sun.
“The 82IB is proud to share the recent collaboration with the missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in delivering much-needed school supplies to the Indigenous Peoples learners at Maytaraw Primary School in Libacao, Aklan,” said Pimentel.
He emphasized their commitment to peace, security, and supporting education and development in remote communities, stating that education is a basic right and they are honored to help make it a reality for the children of Sitio Maytaraw.
"Our soldiers are deeply grateful for the opportunity to take part in this meaningful initiative, and we commend the dedication of our partners from the Church who selflessly serve the community. The journey to Sitio Maytaraw was not easy, but seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and their families made every step worth it," Pimentel said.
Pimentel emphasized the importance of partnerships in building trust and strengthening relationships with communities, demonstrating that when working together, we can overcome challenges with hope, learning, and progress.
The humanitarian mission was led by Kenneth Ray Wayman and Shaynie I. Wayman, representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The missionaries turned over 13 foldable plastic tables, 61 Monoblock chairs, and two boxes containing reading textbooks and school supplies to the remote primary school.
The effort was also supported by several community leaders and church members, including Michelle Dalumpines, chairperson of Barangay Aglonok, Calinog, Iloilo; Harold Quimba, Stake President of Iloilo North; Bishop Virchel Valderama of Calinog Ward Parish; Brother Warleto Fundador of Calinog Ward; and Persigono Dalumpines, Chief Tanod of Calinog, Iloilo.
The 82IB provided manpower to carry the materials through challenging mountain trails.
Teachers from Maytaraw Primary School accompanied the group during the trek and expressed their gratitude for the support received by the learners.
The mission highlighted the importance of inter-agency and multi-sectoral collaboration involving faith-based organizations, the military, and local government officials in addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
The successful delivery of educational resources to Sitio Maytaraw emphasizes the unwavering commitment to reach out to the country's underserved learners by overcoming logistical and geographical challenges. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)