Wounded troops get Christmas gifts

IN recognition of their service to the country, Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana gave Christmas gifts to 36 soldiers who were wounded in action. The gift-giving took place at the Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, said Philippine Army Spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

The activity is part of the DND Christmas tradition project called “Kapagdaka” (Kapakanan at Gabay sa Dating Kaanyuan) that promotes the welfare of persons with disabilities particularly with the soldiers who were injured during their mission.

Army chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay assisted Lorenzana in the giving of grocery items and cash incentives to the 36 wounded soldiers, who were with their dependents.

“This gives us happiness and boosts our morale. We thank them for these Christmas gifts. We are happy because we feel that we are valued and given attention,” Sgt. Renato Eucogco, who is currently recovering at the hospital after he lost his legs during the Marawi siege in 2017, said in Filipino.

The DND chief said Kapagdaka also has additional programs like the distribution of wheelchairs and assistive devices; livelihood trainings for wounded-in-action soldiers and their dependents; skills development opportunities to equip the WIA as they return or get discharged from the service; and other future programs that will further provide assistance to the wounded troops.

“Let me express my most serious thanks to you all for your great service to the nation, even risking your lives to serve our country and the people. I hope that you find comfort with the assurance that the government is at your back to support you and your families. You may have lost or injured a part of your body, but your spirit has definitely become stronger,” Lorenzana added.