OFFICERS and men of the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) on Saturday launched a medical-dental mission in Tanay, Rizal which benefitted over 500 poor residents, majority of them members of an indigenous tribe, the Journal Group learned.

PDEG director Brig. Gen. Dionisio B. Bartolome Jr. spearheaded the comprehensive medical and dental mission in Bgy. Daraitan in Tanay, which also saw local villagers getting free haircut and meals .

The other services include free medical and dental checkups, fluoride treatment for children aged 3-12 and “lugaw, sopas and pandesal” to hundreds of Bgy. Daraitan folks.

The beneficiaries include 183 Dumagat families, which also received essential items such as free medicine, vitamins, health and sanitary kit, as well as brand-new clothes and pair of slippers.

Basketballs were also distributed to young residents of the village as part of the PDEG’s effort to promote healthy living and sports among the youth to keep them away from drugs.

A live band from the PNP Regional Community Affairs and Development Unit 4-A also entertained the crowd and the volunteers during the event.

Bartolome said the collaboration between NGOs and volunteers highlighted the community’s shared spirit and the power unity and solidarity to bring positive change.

“This noble endeavor aligns with the President’s vision for transformative change, emphasizing progress and unity across all sectors of society,” said the PDEG director.

The official said they ensured that the mission will reach the indigenous Dumagat tribesmen and bring them essential government services right through their doorsteps.

Bartolome said they are looking forward to similar humanitarian missions in far-flung areas of the country to bring real government service to the poor and help uplift their spirits.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon