FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – The troops of the 55th Aviation Engineer Wing (355AWE), Philippine Air Force and 9th Engineer Support Battalion (9ESB) of the United States Marines Corps (USMC) inaugurated a Community Health Center — a Balikatan 38-23 project worth 2.1 million pesos in in Barangay Suklayin, Baler, Aurora last Wednesday, April 26.
The actual construction of the building lasted for only 25 days that was part of the ongoing Balikatan exercises between the Philippine and United State troops in the country. The dedication ceremony was facilitated by the 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) of 7th Infantry Division (7ID), Philippine Army.
“We firmly believe that the presence of such Community Health Care Center will quickly ramp up health services to the neediest people especially those who are medically underserved”. Lt. Col. Julito Recto Jr., Commanding Officer of 91IB said.
Lt. Col. Marcus Gillett, Commanding Officer of 9ESB, said that the building symbolized the good relationship between the US and the Philippines working together in order to improve the residents’ access to healthcare services.
Brig. Gen. Rey Bes, Wing Commander of 355AEW expressed his gratitude for being part of the momentous event.
Maj. Gen. Andrew Costelo, Commander of 7ID stated that the project was one of the results of long standing friendship between the U.S. and Philippines that aims to promote not only the capability in territorial defense but also the welfare development in the community.
