File photo of the Philippine Navy Northern Luzon Command based in San Fernando, La Union (Photo courtesy of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon)
LAOAG CITY -- Philippine Navy personnel based in northern Luzon visited this city on Thursday to share their blessings with some coastal residents.
Commodore Nichols Driz said their distribution of wheelchairs, and conduct of medical and dental mission at the Metro Gabu here are their way of sharing the blessings they received this year.
“As soldiers, we have been away from our families. So, in the spirit of Christmas, we wish to share our blessings as we find time to engage in this kind of pre-Christmas activities,” Driz said during a simple program held at the village hall of Metro Gabu.
In cooperation with volunteer doctors at the Laoag City Health Office and reservists of the Philippine Navy, three Laoag barangays (34A, 34B and 35) were selected as beneficiaries of the medical and dental mission.
Navy personnel also turned over some sports equipment to the school principal and fed the pupils of Gabu Elementary School.
A senior citizen and a person with disability were also given a wheelchair and crutches, respectively.
In his message, Senior Provincial Board Member Matthew Manotoc, who served as the guest of honor during the distribution program, lauded the Philippine Navy for its efforts to protect the community and ensure the comfort and health of the public.
“Sometimes, we do not have direct contact with them, that is why we cannot understand their role. Today, they are here with us, sharing what they got,” Manotoc said.
With the proximity of the Ilocos region to other Southeast Asian countries, the Naval Forces Northern Luzon is one of the Armed Forces of the Philippines' wide support commands, combating terrorism and insurgency in this northern part of the country. (PNA)
