8th ID conducts Christmas gift-giving activities in Catbalogan

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17): 8th ID conducts Christmas gift-giving activities in Catbalogan

Taking some time off from their primary mission to defend the country from all forms of threats, the 8th Infantry Division conducted a series of gift-giving activities to its soldiers, their dependents and indigent communities in Catbalogan City, Samar Wednesday.

Capt. Isagani Viernes, 8th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the activities were led by their commander, Major Gen. Jet Velarmino, and his wife Imelda.

The first gift-giving activities took place at Buri Elementary School and Old Mahayag Elementary School, Catbalogan City where around 300 children were given gift packs and grocery items.

While another 200 students from Socorro Elementary School, also in Catbalogan, also received similar items.

Twenty seven soldiers and seven military dependents admitted at the Camp Lukban Station Hospital also received assorted groceries and gift packs from the 8th Infantry Division commander.

Aside from them, officers and enlisted personnel from the unit were also given gifts shortly afterwards.

“Christmas season is one of the happiest times of the year, filled with of the heart-warming joy of giving and sharing with one another. I encourage those who have enough to share, to give to our less-fortunate brothers and sisters and depressed families who were affected by the calamities. Sharing is, after all, the spirit of Christmas," Velarmino said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=839183