Officials of the Philippine National Police Cordillera Administrative Region Training Center (CARTC) and the 598-strong members of Training Class “Gilas Diwa” engaged more than 400 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries, parents and children in the “Pulis ko, Santa ko” I – Care Program.
As a treat for their guests, CARTC prepared snacks and lunch, parlor games, entertainment numbers, and music for community dancing.
As a take home treat, each adult was given a Noche Buena package while the children received school supplies with the candies and goodies distributed by a cop dressed as Santa Claus.
In partnership with the Police Regional Office, a medical team and the Department of Health, gave free medical and dental services.
The police trainees also provided free haircut and wellness (manicure/pedicure) services.
About 206 of them also donated blood to the Philippine Red Cross during the same activity.
Benguet Gov. Melchor Diclas, in his keynote message, lauded the men and women of CARTC, for showcasing not only courage and discipline in ensuring peace and order in every community but also by showing compassion.
“We appreciate the effort of our police, especially on going out their usual way to share blessing to the beneficiaries of the program,” Diclas said.
DSWD Program Development Officer II Ellen Williams also lauded the CARTC for spearheading such event.
She said it is their first time to experience a Christmas party with multiple treats and services for Pantawid Pamil-ya beneficiaries.
The more than 400 guests are 4Ps beneficiaries from eight barangays of Baguio City.
CARTC Regional Training Director Lt/Col. Manolito Parazo said it has been his advocacy every Christmas to share blessings especially to indigent members of society and to bring the police closer to the people.
Patrolman Jade Agustin said that the event was a fulfilling activity because even if they are away from home, they have felt and shared the essence of Christmas.
“I was happy to see the smile in the children’s faces,” Agustin said.
Patrolman Irishman Batangayon said the event was a good way to break their routine of daily training.
“It is a way to show our concern and care, help share the essence Christmas, at the same time build rapport with the community and erase the stigma that kids fear the police,” he added.
Prior to the program, the CARTC also delivered gifts to around 200 other Pantawid Pamilya children beneficiaries in various barangays in Baguio. – Carlito C. Dar
