3ID’s outreach program aids Tapaz residents

By Jennifer P. Rendon

TAPAZ, Capiz — Hundreds of residents in this town benefited from a three-day community outreach initiative led by the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID) through the 301st Infantry Brigade.

Called the Peace, Healing, and Reconciliation (PHR) Program, the community-based initiative delivered a range of government services to grassroots communities, particularly in Barangays Nayawan, Lahug, and Tacayan from Dec. 2 to 4.

The activity was conducted in partnership with the 12th Infantry (Lick-’Em) Battalion, the 3rd Civil-Military Operations Battalion, and the Tapaz local government unit.

A total of 263 individuals received medical consultations and essential medicines during the outreach.

Sixteen young boys underwent free circumcision as part of the Army’s community health services.

Fifty-six residents received dental care, including tooth extractions and oral hygiene education.

Fifty others availed of free haircut services.

Meanwhile, 80 children joined a feeding program designed to promote child nutrition and wellness.

Fifty families were given gift packs containing food and basic household necessities.

Five households also received assistance in repairing electronic appliances, improving their day-to-day living conditions.

Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, highlighted the program’s role in fostering peace and sustainable development in conflict-affected communities.

“This initiative is more than the delivery of services; it is a testament to our collective resolve to heal, reconcile, and unite communities long affected by conflict,” Samson said.

“Through the Peace, Healing, and Reconciliation Program, we rebuild trust in government, strengthen partnerships, and lay the foundation for stable, secure, and empowered communities,” he added.

Samson also acknowledged the partner agencies and volunteers who supported the initiative.

“We are deeply grateful to our partner agencies and volunteers whose dedication made this program possible, and it is through this spirit of collaboration that we can truly achieve healed, reconciled, and resilient communities not only in Tapaz but across the entire region,” he said.

The PHR team was initially deployed in selected communities in September to promote peace and reconciliation and help build stable, secure, and empowered areas within the 3ID’s jurisdiction.