FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay leads the giving of gifts today, December 16, to around 360 Army soldiers currently confined at the Army General Hospital (AGH) and V. Luna Medical Center (VLMC).
CGPA’s visit intended to uplift the morale of the soldiers and their families in the said hospitals. “Christmas is most meaningful when celebrated in the spirit of thanksgiving and sharing. This is what inspired me to seek your company today so that I may properly express my gratitude to all of you for all that you have done for the Philippine Army,” addressed Gapay during the gift-giving ceremony.
Around 104 soldiers from AGH and 256 from VLMC received a Noche Buena package and cash incentives.
Gapay also mentioned the Army’s objective to extend its support to military personnel in the field in terms of medical equipment, land and air ambulances, individual first aid kits, and combat life saver kits. The command will also give attention in the expansion of its partnership with hospitals and the enhancement of each Division’s forward medical support companies.
“Nagpapsalamat po [kami] kasi po [kami] ay naaalala,” said Janine Olipas, 28, wife of Cpl. Rolando Olipas, who obtained a severe head injury causing him to lose his ability to speak.
“We have known and accepted the moment we joined the service that we will be constantly exposed to risks and dangers. This is the reason that you are here today, confined in the hospital and may be unable to go home or be with your family for holidays – it means you have put your lives on the line in order to serve and defend our people and country,” noted Gapay.#