3rd Civil Military Operations Company, Joint Special Operations Task Force — Philippines hold Zamboanga Medical Civic Action Projects

Photo By Jerry Lobb | Army Sgt. Chyanne T. Thomas, a service member from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, hugs a young boy at a at a Medical Civic Action Project in the Campo Islam Barangay (community). More than three hundred patients received medical and dental care at this event organized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines 3rd Civil Military Operations Company, based on Camp Navarro.  

ZAMBOANGA, PHILIPPINES

10.27.2009

Story by Jerry Lobb 

U.S. Special Operations Command Pacific

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines' 3rd Civil Military Operations Company teamed up with the Joint Special Operations Task Force — Philippines to conduct three Medical Civic Action Projects, providing medical and dental care to more than 1,300 patients, Oct. 27-29.

The three events were held in the barangays (communities) of Campo Islam, (Oct 27), Baliwasan (Oct 28) and Santa Barbara, (Oct 29).

"Being able to be part of this event was fantastic. It's a pretty big feeling of pride to do what we're doing here," said Petty Officer 1st Class Mike Davis, Navy hospital corpsman.

The staff of the 3rd CMOC and their students attending SALA'AM Operators Course Class 07-09 organized the MEDCAPs as a training exercise, providing hands-on experience for those attending the course. Following graduation, the students will be assigned to units where they will be organizing and conducting similar events.

In addition to the 3rd CMOC and JSOTF-P, several other military and community organizations contributed medical supplies, food, clothing and personnel to support the event. Some of those organizations include: Western Mindanao Command, Marine Forces South, Camp Navarro General Hospital, the National Food Authority, Department of Health, Zamboanga City Health Office, The Department of Social Works and Development and the Coca-Cola Bottlers, Philippines Incorporated.

"I want the students to learn how to assist and win the support of the people in the communities where they will be assigned," said Capt. Jomar Daquioag, commander of the 3rd CMOC. "We want the people in the barangays to understand the government is here to help improve their communities," he said.

Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremy West, Navy hospital corpsman, participated in the first two events at Campo Islam and Baliwasan. West estimated he treated about 100 patients each day for ailments from coughs and skin problems to numerous patients with high blood pressure and diabetes.

"It is definitely a rewarding experience to be able to help a lot of less fortunate people. The experience really makes you think about, and be grateful for, the care we have available back home," he said.

Maj. Matt Marbella, Civil Affairs Company Commander for JSOTF-P was also proud to be part of the event.

"It was pleasures seeing the SALA'AM Company improve each day," said Marbella. "We're thankful they included us as part of their events. We wish them the best of luck and look forward to working with them in the field."

• Date Taken: 10.27.2009
• Date Posted: 11.03.2009 23:30
• Story ID: 41048
• Location: ZAMBOANGA, PH