The Rotary Club of Olympia and the Rotary Club of Basilan, under the banner of Alagang Olympia–Alagang DAmang DAHma, conducted a large-scale medical and community outreach mission on December 7 at the Isabela City Civic and Cultural Center in Barangay Binuangan. The initiative, themed “Rotary Service in Action: Bringing Health, Hope, and Healing,” brought together civic, medical, military, and local government partners committed to improving the well-being of communities across Basilan.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Basilan Medical Society, the 101st Infantry Brigade, the 6th Special Forces Battalion, the 19th Special Forces Company, Tau Gamma Phi/Sigma Triskelions’ Grand Fraternity and Sorority, the Basilan Provincial Council, CPDAO, and Dr. Janet Quir of Basilan Medical Center.
Binuangan Punong Barangay Arcel Patiño delivered the welcome remarks, followed by a message from the chairperson of the Committee on Health, City Councilor Ameen Camilian was represented by Kagawad Marilyn Aguinid, who delivered an inspirational message.
In her message of support, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, who also serves as President of the Rotary Club of Basilan, emphasized the value of collective service in providing medical care, hygiene kits, feeding programs, book donations, and mobility aids to Isabela City residents. She thanked all partners and volunteers, highlighting that working together brings meaningful change, and reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to a healthier, safer, and more compassionate Basilan. This was followed by a message from Elvie Beckette, president of the Rotary Club of Makati Olympia.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman personally led the ceremonial acceptance of the books donated for the Isabela City Mobile Library, underscoring the city government’s commitment to promoting literacy and learning among young Basilenos.
One of the highlights of the event was the humanitarian distribution. Beneficiaries received wheelchairs, crutches, and walkers. Books were also turned over to the daycare pupils of Binuangan and formally handed over to Mayor Turabin-Hataman for the Isabela City Mobile Library. In addition, towels and hygiene kits were provided to the fourteen athletes of Basilan National High School.
Also present from the Rotary Club of Makati Olympia were PP Ernesto Balida, who also serves as the Vice Mayor of Batad, Iloilo; former president Dr. Maryann Paranpan; Dr. Alma Escalderon; Dr. Gary Escalderon; midwife Niña Joy Camosa; and nurse Pauline Joy Inferido.
This joint initiative of the Rotary Clubs of Olympia and Basilan stands as a testament to the power of community service and inter-agency collaboration—bringing vital healthcare, educational support, and hope to the people of Basilan. (Words by SJ Asakil, CIO/Photos by K. Galano, IsaTV)
