February 21, 2008

RP-US BALIKATAN 2008 HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE MISSION
TO BE CONDUCTED IN NUEVA ECIJA

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES – Soldiers from the 7 th Infantry Division (RP), the 68 th Infantry Battalion (AFP), and Task Force 294 (US) will conduct two concurrent, joint humanitarian missions at Barangay Soledad and Barangay Liwayway on Friday, Feb. 22 as part of the Balikatan 2008.

Two Philippine and two U.S. dentists will provide free dental services in Barangay Soledad and Barangay Liwayway for local residents. Dental care will be primarily for the children of the two Barangays, however, it will also be extended to adults as needed.

AFP and U.S. soldiers will conduct repairs and beautification of the surrounding grounds at the elementary schools in Barangay Soledad and Barangay Liwayway. In the spirit of “Bayanihan,” or cooperation, and at the invitation of local community leaders, the RP-US soldiers and the residents of the Barangays are working to provide the best learning environment for the children at these two elementary schools.

AFP and U.S. soldiers will conclude activities by presenting the teachers and students at the elementary schools with school supplies and sports equipment donated by the American people.

Balikatan 2008 is an annual Republic of the Philippines and U.S. humanitarian assistance and training activity held Feb. 18- March 3, 2008. During Balikatan 2008, Philippine and U.S. military service members will carry out community assistance projects and participate in training to improve maritime security and respond jointly in the event of natural disasters or other crises.

For additional information, contact the CJIB public affairs officer, Lt. Kevin Jane at 0906-502-5427, Sgt. 1 st Class Sheryl Lawry at 0929-689-9698, or the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs office at 632-301-2363 or via email to mnlinfooffice@state.gov.

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