BASILAN – Extending crucial medical services to one of Basilan’s remotest islands, the military executed a medical outreach program in Tabuan Lasa municipality on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Led by the 19th Special Forces Company under the 4th Special Forces Battalion, the military aimed to address the pressing healthcare needs of the island’s residents.
Lt. Col. Adolf Ian Garceron, Executive Officer of the 4th SF Battalion, emphasized:
“Serving as the conduit for delivering essential medical services to the island’s residents is the primary objective of the military’s outreach program.”
Mayor Moner Manisan of Tabuan Lasa highlighted the municipality’s struggle in accessing government-provided free services due to its distance from the mainland. Despite having a health center, essential medicines and equipment are lacking. The military’s intervention successfully delivered much-needed medical services to the island.
Mayor Moner Manisan stated:
“The military’s presence and the medical services they provided are invaluable to our island. With shortages in medicine and equipment despite having a health center, the military’s help has made a significant impact.”
Lt. Col. Garceron emphasized the soldiers’ commitment to assisting those in need, particularly in maintaining the overall well-being of the community.
“We, as soldiers, are dedicated to helping those in need, especially in the healthcare aspect of the community.”
Island residents expressed gratitude, acknowledging the military’s dedication to their welfare through firsthand experience with the free medical services and check-ups.
Resident Nanang Jikiri shared:
“We are grateful for the military’s concern in our area, and we have experienced the free services, especially the medicines and check-ups.”
Resident Elma Birol added:
“We call on local officials and the military to collaborate for the island’s improvement.”
In conclusion, both local officials and the military appealed for unity to foster peace and progress on the island.
