Army, partners provide services to 3,000 IPs in AgNor town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 26): Army, partners provide services to 3,000 IPs in AgNor town

The 4th Infantry Division of Philippine Army, together with other government agencies in Caraga had recently extended their services thru the conduct of Serbisyo Peace Caravan to some 3,000 Indigenous Peoples (IPs) held at the covered court of Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

The Serbisyo Peace Caravan was focused on prioritizing the IP communities composed mainly of the Mamanwa Tribe. It also included the local residents of said barangay that availed of the services from the government.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Glenn Joy Aynera, commanding officer of 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, the said caravan is designed to provide priority basic services of the government to the people of Santiago and the rest of the municipalities of Agusan del Norte especially the IPs. Through this activity, the localities will feel that the government is there for them.

“It formed part of the six-point peace and development agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte's administration to deliver the socio-economic development in conflict-affected areas,” bared Aynera.

A total of 27 government agencies, civil society and private organizations in Caraga region have extended their full support. The services offered help in addressing issues on health, poverty, grooming, livelihood, education, social, legal and land concerns.

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga has offered dental/medical services, circumcision, deworming, buntis kits, hygiene kits, and jerry cans to the beneficiaries. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga gave 600 falcata seedlings to the IPs and local residents. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) also distributed food curls and 500 baby foods, while the TESDA gave away training certificates.

In his message, mayor Franklin Lim encouraged the localities to avail of the free services of the government offered today in their municipality. He also expressed his hope that more of same activity will be conducted in his area of responsibility so more people can continue to benefit.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba emphasized that without the people in the localities, there would be no government. She encouraged everyone to unite with the government and do what will serve best to the majority.

During the short program, Gov. Matba, together with the PNP, AFP officials, heads of government agencies and partner stakeholders affixed their signature in the peace covenant.

LTC Cristobal Zaragoza, commander of 401st Brigade, 4ID Phil. Army also led the oath-taking of allegiance of the 10 awardees of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041477462750/army-partners-provide-services-to-3-000-ips-in-agnor-town