23/05/2026
“BAYANIHAN SA SERBISYO: SKSU-ACCESS ROTC and Partners Bring Hope and Free Services to Esperanza Community”
ESPERANZA, SULTAN KUDARAT — In a meaningful display of unity, compassion, and public service, the Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) – ACCESS ROTC Unit, together with government agencies and professional organizations, conducted the “Bayanihan sa Serbisyo: Kalusugan, Katarungan, at Malasakit para sa Mamamayan” on May 23, 2026, at Barangay Sagasa, Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.
Described as an integrated outreach program, the activity brought together medical consultation, dental, eye care, haircut, circumcision, medicine, reading glass distribution and legal services all free of charge, specifically tailored for marginalized sectors and residents in far-flung areas. It was classified as a Community Outreach Program, Civic Action Activity, and Medical-Dental Aid Mission, designed to address gaps in basic services in the locality.
LTC LITO B MAGHUYOP (INF) PA, Director of the 1202nd Community Defense Center, 12th Regional Community Defense Group (12RCDG), Reserve Command (RESCOM), Philippine Army, and LTC CYRUS E TORREÑA, Acting Battalion Commander of the 1202nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion served as the main proponent, with the SKSU College of Criminal Justice Education as co-proponent. The 12RCDG led the implementation, working closely with the Department of Military Science and Tactics and the 1202nd Community Defense Center.
Leading the activity were key officials and personnel: COL ANTHONY O SAMONTE ARM (GSC) PA, Group Commander of the 12RCDG and Hon. Lourdes Panghulan, Barangay Captain of Sagasa. Also present were representatives from security, health, and civil sectors: PMAJ JETHRO DAVE D. DOLIGAS of the Police Strategy Management Unit; 2LT JAN ALFRED GARAN (INF) PA of Charlie Company, 57th Infantry Battalion; PSSG Christian Cari-an, Second SKPMFC Team Leader; PCMS Rafael V. Paperna, Team Leader of the Esperanza Police Station; Dr. Reu Zandro Enguito, Municipal Health Officer of Esperanza; Dr. Fedriza Munez of the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Mobile Hospital; Felly Rose Lumboan from Cabaluna Surgical and Clinic; and Hon. Josi Gayosa, Peace and Order Official.
Barangay officials also played a vital role in the activity: Hon. Jerry Porcelin (Infrastructure and Development Committee), Hon. Luwila Femip (VAWC Committee), Hon. Dante Acosta (Ways and Means and Education Committee), and Hon. Ramil Garcia (Health Committee).
Hundreds of residents benefited from the free services offered during the activity. These included medical consultations and health assessments, dental check-ups and tooth extractions, eye examinations with free reading glasses, safe circumcision services, and legal assistance covering consultations, notarial services, and guidance on civil and criminal concerns.
The success of the activity was made possible through the support of the Provincial Government of Sultan Kudarat, Provincial Health Office, Integrated Bar of the Philippines – Sultan Kudarat Chapter, Philippine Dental Association – Sultan Kudarat Chapter, and the SKSU College of Criminal Justice Education.
According to the organizers, the outreach program reflects the ROTC unit’s commitment not only to military training, but also to community service, patriotism, and civic responsibility. Through initiatives like this, cadets are encouraged to become active contributors to nation-building and community development.
For many residents, the program became more than just a one-day event. It served as a reminder that cooperation and compassion can create a lasting impact, especially for communities in need. Several beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, sharing that access to free medical and legal services is rare in far-flung barangays.
As the program concluded, organizers reaffirmed their commitment to continue expanding the Bayanihan sa Serbisyo initiative to more communities across Sultan Kudarat, carrying forward the spirit of volunteerism, unity, and genuine service to the people.
