ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--Amidst pursuing the aim of magnifying the welfare of vulnerable children, the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB) of the 55th Engineer Brigade has never failed to deliver memorable thrills to the young populace.

This, as the group chose to highlight the celebration of the 31st founding anniversary of the Brigade through a community outreach program with the theme, “Sharing smiles: Baonan bag giveaway for children.” 

In partnership with the Rebisco Foundation, Inner Wheel Club Lanao del Norte, and Aice Philippines, at least 131 kids residing in Baloi town in Lanao del Norte benefited after they received ice cream and lunch bags containing snack items, health kits, and school supplies.

In his relayed message, 55th Engineer Brigade Commander Col. Ulpiano Olarte conveyed that this special event showcased the unity of the community and provided them with an opportunity to bring joy to those who still dream and rely on someone else's help.

He was optimistic that the success of their activity had conveyed to the kids that they would not be alone in their journey as their community would support and fuel them with hope. 

Pastor Alfredo Obina Jr., member of the 55th Engineer Brigade-MSAB, asserted this and further explained that they specifically aimed to reach children as recipients to ensure they understand that everyone cares about them.

He stated that it would be apt to spotlight them as they looked forward to this generation becoming leaders of various government agencies. 

Obina stressed that they had to let the kids witness good acts so that they would emulate this and pass it on to others.

“Kining mga kabataan ang naay taas nga memory retention. Kung ila ning balunon sa ilang pagdako, I believe ila ning mahimong practice puhon,” he said.

(The youth have a long memory retention. If they bring this with them as they grow, I believe they will practice it in the future). 

Meanwhile, 55th Engineer Brigade-MSAB Vice Chairperson Dr. Rasmila Cosain was delighted that the program complemented her personal advocacy of being a teacher and member of the academe sector. 

She maintained that children are the nation's hope, leading her to believe that they should be molded effectively and given ample attention. 

Cosain also mentioned that their recent activity demonstrated that soldiers are not solely focused on security but also on providing social protection.

“Ang ating mga kasundaluhan is taking care not only of the battle ground but also sa mga bata. Sana nagustuhan nila ang aming kaunting gift. It is from our heart. At least nakapag-share kami kahit kaunti,” she said.

(Our army is taking care not only of the battleground but also of the kids. I hope they liked our small gift. It is from our hearts. At least we have shared, even if it was small).

Capping off the outreach program with satisfaction in their hearts, Olarte encouraged the public to continue giving hope to one another.

He also inspired the kids, emphasizing that as the future of the nation, they should not lack perseverance. Instead, they should be determined to finish their studies and to be kind, responsible, and compassionate.

“Ipagpatuloy niyo ang pagtutulungan at pagsusumikap upang maitaguyod ang magandang kinabukasan para sa ating lahat. Kami ay umaasa na kayo ay maging tagapagtanggol ng karapatan ng bawat isa,” he said.

(Continue helping one another and persisting so that we can bring forth a better future for all of us. We rely on you as the vanguards of the rights of each one).

Dedicated to expanding their service, the 55th Engineer Brigade-MSAB said they plan to conduct another gift-giving in December this year and construct another waiting shed in front of the brigade’s premises for their host community. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)