More than 400 active and retired soldiers, along with their dependents, received free vision care, flu shots, and pneumonia vaccines during a multi-sector outreach mission on Sunday, February 16.
The event, a collaborative effort between the Bangsamoro health ministry and the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6th ID), brought much-needed medical services to the community.
Brig. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th ID, shared details of the day-long initiative with reporters on Tuesday, February 18.
Humanitarian Mission Coincides Military Hospital’s Anniversary
He said the mission was made possible through the joint efforts of the Bangsamoro health ministry and the dedicated personnel of Camp Siongco Station Hospital, the 6th ID’s medical facility.
The event also marked a special milestone—the 50th founding anniversary of the Camp Siongco Station Hospital, located within the 6th ID headquarters in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.
“This humanitarian mission was a fitting way to celebrate five decades of service by Camp Siongco Hospital,” Gumiran said. “It’s a testament to our commitment to caring for our soldiers, their families, and the community.”
The outreach was met with gratitude from both military and civilian leaders.
First Lt. Hannah Valdez, chief of Camp Siongco Hospital, expressed her appreciation to Bangsamoro Health Minister Kadil M. Sinolinding, Jr., and the Ministry of Health-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MoH-BARMM) for their unwavering support.
“This initiative has touched the lives of so many in need,” Valdez said. “It’s a reminder of the power of collaboration.”
Access to Care
Health Minister Sinolinding, a physician-ophthalmologist and member of the Bangsamoro parliament, has been a driving force behind community health initiatives in the region.
Alongside Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, he has spearheaded a continuing eye care program since 2022, benefiting marginalized Moro and non-Moro indigenous communities. Sunday’s mission was a reflection of this ongoing commitment to accessible healthcare.
Of the 436 patients treated during the event, and 90 received free reading glasses. The medical team has scheduled some 13 elderly patients with cataract and pterygium.
Jelyn Alegata, the anti-blindness program coordinator for MoH-BARMM, highlighted the impact of the mission. “These surgeries and treatments can be life-changing,” she said. “For many, this is the first time they’ve had access to such care.”
The humanitarian mission not only provided critical medical services but also strengthened the bond between the military and the community. (DAILY SUN CHRONICLE, FEB. 19, 2025)