On May 27, however, the sound of military trucks arriving in Barangay Calabasa carried something more than supplies—it brought hope, assistance, and a reminder that even the most isolated communities are not forgotten.
More than 200 residents gathered as the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID), through its flagship outreach initiative “Handog Malasakit ng Pamilyang Kaugnay,” delivered food packs and livelihood assistance to local families and farmers.
Children smiled and joined games organized by soldiers, while parents listened attentively to community activities prepared by troops from the 48th Infantry Battalion. What could have been an ordinary distribution activity quickly transformed into a day of fellowship, learning, and connection.
For members of the Calabasa Farmers Association, the livelihood assistance represented more than financial support. It offered a chance to strengthen their farming activities and improve their families’ future. Association president Michael Valdez expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying that support reaching remote communities helps farmers continue their work despite various challenges.
The outreach activity was conducted in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Gabaldon and the 703rd Infantry Brigade. Local leaders, including Barangay Captain Isagani T. Sibayan and Municipal Administrator Ricardo A. Subido, welcomed the initiative and thanked the Army for extending government services to communities located far from the town proper.
Beyond providing assistance, soldiers also facilitated team-building activities and presented an audio-visual discussion on the West Philippine Sea, encouraging patriotism and national awareness among residents.
For Major General Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, such initiatives reflect a broader mission of building peace through meaningful engagement with communities.
“Peace is not only secured through strength—it is nurtured through compassion and service. By reaching remote communities, we strengthen trust, create opportunities, and reinforce our shared responsibility in nation-building,” Pasamonte said.
The activity demonstrated that peacebuilding extends beyond security operations. In communities where opportunities are limited and access remains difficult, a simple gesture of assistance can foster trust, strengthen partnerships, and create pathways toward development.
As the program concluded, residents returned to their homes carrying food packs and renewed optimism. For the soldiers, the journey back meant more than completing a mission—it meant fulfilling a commitment to serve not only as defenders of the land, but also as partners in improving the lives of the people they protect.
In the remote mountains of Gabaldon, peace was not measured by the absence of conflict that day. It was seen in the smiles of children, the gratitude of farmers, and the growing bond between communities and those who serve them.
photo courtesy via7 th Infantry Division (7ID), Facebook page
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