The Department of National Defense, Northern Luzon Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Local Government Unit of Laoac, Pangasinan turned over agricultural equipment to farmers, and conducted medical and dental services to residents of the municipality today at the Laoac Municipal Hall.
The mission, which was witnessed by Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. forms part of continuing efforts to extend government services and support to local communities while strengthening civil-military cooperation.
In his remarks, Secretary Teodoro underscored the importance of ensuring that military activities conducted in communities bring tangible benefits to local residents.
“We make sure that we leave the community better than when we first entered. In terms of how we can best help, build up resilience, needs, see where we can assist in healthcare and in other gaps. And that is what today’s exercise is,” Secretary Teodoro said.
“We do not merely exercise to exercise, of course, that is the principal responsibility, but we make sure that communities where we exercise in feel the least disruption and have the best benefits possible from the outcome of the exercise,” he added.
Secretary Teodoro also noted that engagements with local communities allow the DND to better understand conditions on the ground, which can be valuable in times of calamities and disasters. By maintaining close coordination with local governments and residents, the Defense Department is able to gather important information that can help improve preparedness, response, and the delivery of assistance during emergencies.
“And when this exercise happened, we had a gap analysis with the mayor, consulted with the mayor, and this is the result,” the Defense Chief said.
Secretary Teodoro reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to initiatives that bring government services closer to the people and contribute to the well-being of Filipino communities.
