GK Bayani Challenge opens on ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’

NEGROS Oriental 2nd district Rep. George Arnaiz and Amlan Mayor Bentham dela Cruz led the opening of the 5th Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge during the celebration of “Araw ng Kagitingan” last April 9 in Amlan town.

More than 1,500 summer bayani volunteers from the Philippine Army’s 302 Brigade participated in the building of houses for the GK community in barangay Tambujangin, Amlan, for the families who lost their houses to the floods brought by typhoon Sendong.

Army information officer Capt. Anacito Naz said the brigade provided two military trucks for the transportation of the volunteers, tent for the accommodation of the male volunteers and additional personnel to participate in the “Operation Tuli” and other activities.

The Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion also offered tents and security personnel for the participants.

A total of 98 teams or about 2,000 individuals registered for the activities. Forty-two teams were assigned to build houses, 27 teams for the putting up of Paraisong Pambata, which includes school renovation and feeding. Twenty-nine teams were designated for environmental services.
Naz said the activity showed the involvement of stakeholders consistent with the spirit of “bayanihan.” It is also a manifestation of commitment and dedication by peace-loving citizens to serve the Filipinos especially the homeless and the needy residents of Amlan.

The participation of the army’s 302 Brigade led by Col. Francisco Patrimonio is part of the activities of the brigade in support to the “IPSP (Internal Peace and Security Plan) Bayanihan” and the celebration of the “Araw ng Kagitingan.”

Presidential Communications Operation Office Undersecretary for Special Concerns Jose Mari Oquiñena of Pilipinas Natin said, “It is a challenge, since the heavy rains will impede the construction of houses but the enthusiasm to serve and teamwork of the volunteers will help in accomplishing the target number of houses.”

Pilipinas Natin is a campaign to build volunteerism movement that thrives on the people’s continuing response to the call for change.