Army supports Panay in fight vs dengue

By: Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – The 3rd Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army ib Jamindan, Capiz launched various efforts to help fight dengue in Panay area.

This, after the Department of Health (DOH) recently made a declaration of national dengue epidemic due to the increasing cases of the mosquito-borne disease in some parts of the country.

According to the latest DOH data, Western Visayas had the most cases at 23,330.

Major General Dinoh Dolina, 3ID commander, said they will mobilize all their Panay-based units to commit their human and material resources to help the community in fighting dengue.

“Initially, we will send our military nurses from Camp Peralta Station Hospital on a rotational basis to Bailan District Hospital in Pontevedra, Capiz, following the request of the latter for medical assistance due to rising number of dengue cases,” Dolina said.

He added that the 3ID have standby medical team ready for dispatch if some other hospitals need assistance.

Last Tuesday, the 12th Infantry Battalion (IB) extended 30 folding beds to Iloilo City government to be utilized by dengue patients.

Dolina said the 12th IB will lend additional 80 folding beds to the city government after it was placed under state of calamity due to dengue outbreak.

He added that the 3ID’s line units, specifically the 61st IB has been actively participating in various clean-up drives to help maintain a dengue-free environment, and blood-letting activities to ensure adequate supply of blood available for those in need.

“We are one with the Panaynons in fighting dengue. In situations like this, we must work together to help those who were affected by the disease. Rest assured that we are ready to respond in any manner,” Dolina said.