ARMY HOSTS TURNOVER OF MAP DONATIONS FOR TYPHOON VICTIMS
FORT BONIFACIO, METRO MANILA - The AFP, the Philippine Army in
particular, is humbled by the outpouring support coming from various
groups and individuals who continually support the organization in its
endeavors and who shared the commitment to uplift the lives of the
soldiers.
Yesterday, the Philippine Army hosted the turnover of donations from the
Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) to the families and
relatives of the soldier victims of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng at the
Philippine Army Officers Club House.
Last year, two devastating calamities hit the country - typhoons Ondoy
and Pepeng. Thousands had died including Philippine Army soldiers who
fearlessly faced death while doing their duty of rescuing people who
were in danger. Sergeant Adriano Regua, Corporal Venancio Ancheta, CAA
Joel Hernalin, CAA Erineo Olaguer, CAA Florencio Dequino, CAA Pedro
Montefalcon, and CAA Artemio Descotido went beyond the call of duty and
offered the supreme sacrifice so that others may live.
With the dedication to help improve the lives of the families of these
soldiers and their strong commitment to lend a helping hand, MAP has
created "A Life for Others Foundation" purposely to give support to the
families of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
They initiated a fund-raising campaign to help the orphaned families of
the seven soldiers who died in last year's typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
The families each received P100,000 worth of housing unit in Calauan,
Laguna, a housing project of Children's Hour.
In 2008, the business community tied up with the AFP through the efforts
of Atty. Eusebio V Tan, MAP President and Mr. Peter Wallace, MAP Vice
President and Chair of A Life for Others Foundation, in helping the
soldiers and their families. "We will strengthen our partnership with
the AFP to make a real difference in the lives of our soldiers," Mr.
Wallace said.
Today's activity is a tribute not just to the seven soldiers who died in
rescuing civilians during typhoon Ondoy but also to those who sacrificed
some of their precious possessions, left their families and home, and
helped in the rescue and relief efforts.
"The AFP had been the very first to lend a hand because it is our
commitment to protect the people in times of danger. We pay our respect
and tribute to these men. If only for the soldiers to take inspiration
from the sacrifices of these seven soldiers," said AFP chief Gen Delfin
N Bangit.
The AFP chief also thanked the support of the business community. "We
are happy that there is someone to take care of our families when we are
no longer here with them," Gen Bangit further said.
To the orphaned families, Gen Bangit also expressed his gratitude.
"Truly we are sorry for your loss. Thank you very much for lending us
the life of your loved ones," he added.
The Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt Gen Reynaldo B Mapagu,
committed to the support of the Army engineers in the construction of
the houses. He said that with the expected reduction in the labor costs,
the donated funds can be optimized to develop better houses for the
recipients.
Mrs. Shirly Regua, the widow of Sgt Adriano Regua, spoke on behalf of
the victims' families. She emotionally thanked the AFP as well as the A
Life for Others Foundation for their kindness.
Through this activity, the Army aims to highlight the heroism of the
soldiers especially those who were involved in the conduct of
non-traditional roles. These soldiers are the modern heroes of today who
put their personal interests aside to perform a mandated task
unconditionally. Though no amount of monetary reward or recognition
could ease the families' suffering brought about by the loss of their
loved ones, the Philippine Army, with the help of concerned groups and
organizations, shall tirelessly offer support and assistance to the
soldiers' families. # . |
