TACLOBAN CITY — Thousands of residents from remote barangays in Catubig, Northern Samar received vital government services as the provincial government’s Kauswagan Caravan held its 37th leg in the municipality, reaffirming its mission to bring essential programs closer to communities in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
The latest caravan stop covered Barangays Calingnan, Manering, Francisco, C.M. Recto, and P. Rebadulla, with the main activities held at Calingnan Elementary School. The event gathered local and national government officials, military units, and private organizations working together to deliver much-needed services to residents.
Leading the caravan was Governor Harris Ongchuan, joined by Second District Representative Edwin Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Catubig Mayor Solomon Vicencio, and other provincial and municipal officials. Also in attendance were PNP Provincial Director Col. Sonnie Omengan, 803rd Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Ericson Rosanna, and representatives from national agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.
The caravan offered free medical and dental services such as check-ups, circumcisions, and tooth extractions, along with legal consultations, civil registration assistance, and the distribution of vegetable seeds, tree seedlings, food packs, school supplies, toys, and other basic goods.
Residents from various barangays expressed gratitude to the provincial government for delivering programs directly to their communities, sparing them the long and costly trips to the town center.
Also participating in the event was the 19th Infantry “Commando” Battalion of the Philippine Army, led by Lieutenant Colonel Ricky James L. Rosalejos, whose troops provided free haircuts and set up photo booths for attendees. Their involvement underscored the strong partnership between the military and civilian sectors in promoting peace and development in the province.
Governor Ongchuan said the Kauswagan Caravan will continue to reach out to remote and underserved areas across Northern Samar, ensuring that “no community is left behind in the province’s development efforts.”
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
