SOLDIERS from the Philippine Army's 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion (82IB) spent Father's Day, Sunday, June 15, 2025, on a mission to provide basic government services to Barangay Dalagsa-an, a remote village in Libacao, Aklan.
The 82IB headquarters is at Camp Jizmundo, Barangay Libas, Banga, Aklan.
Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Jovert Pimentel, 82IB commanding officer, troops hiked through rugged terrain and crossed rivers to reach the village, located about 22 kilometers from the town proper.
They joined the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and other stakeholders in a three-day Serbisyo Caravan, which concluded on June 17.
"This Serbisyo Caravan, a convergence of government agencies and community partners, enabled the residents of Dalagsa-an, a geographically isolated and disadvantaged area in Libacao, to access essential government services often beyond their reach," Pimentel said.
The DILG organized the outreach in collaboration with the Libacao Local Government Unit, the Municipal Police Station (MPS) – Libacao, Barangay Health Workers, Barangay officials, and the 82IB.
A total of 197 beneficiaries received free medical check-ups. Forty-five children underwent free circumcisions. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) registered 251 residents for their National IDs, and 65 individuals received free haircuts from Philippine Army and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel.
The Serbisyo Caravan also included activities for children, such as cartoon movie showings and Philippine Army promotional videos.
Youth participants attended a symposium on their role in nation-building, emphasizing the importance of civic awareness and involvement among the younger generation.
Barangay Chairman Esmeraldo Orao expressed gratitude for the community's support in an initiative that reflected public service and for their recognition.
Pimentel thanked the villagers for their warm welcome and active participation.
"We are grateful for the unwavering support of our stakeholders and community, making this activity a success. Even though our uniforms were drenched after crossing rivers and walking for hours, our efforts were rewarded by their happiness and gratitude," he added.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID), commended the efforts of the 82IB, DILG, and partner agencies for successfully reaching residents in a far-flung area.
"Our outreach program in Barangay Dalagsa-an embodies the principle: 'Remote, but not forgotten.' In this far-flung barangay, where fathers and residents often work tirelessly, the Serbisyo Caravan serves as a reminder that their labor is valued. Even in the most remote corners of Aklan, the spirit of Father’s Day finds a way to reach them," Samson said.
He also acknowledged the joint commitment of partner agencies, comparing it to the sacrifices soldiers make by spending important occasions away from loved ones.
Samson expressed gratitude for the partners' dedication to providing government services to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
He highlighted their shared commitment to serving the people and their own sacrifices for important occasions. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)