CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command advanced community-based health and resilience initiatives through a two-day Community Health Engagement (CHE) and Civic Action (CIVAC) activity conducted from April 8 to 9, 2026 in San Narciso, Quezon, as part of Exercise Balikatan 41-2026.
The activity underscored the commitment of the Philippines and the United States to strengthen civil-military cooperation, enhance human security, and build resilient communities through integrated and people-centered initiatives.
Joint AFP and U.S. medical teams, supported by personnel from the AFP Reserve Force, delivered essential healthcare services including medical consultations, dental care, and the distribution of medicines and vitamins to approximately 300 residents from Barangay Villa Reyes and neighboring communities.
Beyond direct service delivery, the activity incorporated capability-building components for local responders. Members of the Local Emergency Response Team (LERT) and barangay personnel participated in training on trauma care, vector control, and first aid, aimed at improving community-level preparedness and response to public health concerns and emergencies.
The CHE and CIVAC efforts demonstrate an integrated approach that links defense cooperation with community development, strengthening public trust while building local capacity alongside government units, stakeholders, and reservists.
Through Exercise Balikatan 41-2026, the AFP reaffirms the enduring Philippines–United States alliance, grounded in shared values, mutual support, and a commitment to regional stability and humanitarian cooperation.///
