The Advance Craniofacial Project Philippines Inc. (ACPPI), in collaboration with the 11th Infantry Division (11ID) and the Sulu Provincial Government, conducted a free cleft surgery operation at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital (CTBSH), located within the 11ID headquarters in Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu.
According to Alakdan Division, through this initiative, 43 beneficiaries, primarily children, received transformative surgeries, giving them renewed confidence and brighter futures.
Mae Ann Padilla, CEO of ACPPI, expressed profound gratitude to both the military and local government for their unwavering support. Lt. Col. Luisita P. Clavecillas II, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, echoed her sentiments, acknowledging the program’s positive impact on the community.
Sulu Vice Governor Abdsakur T. Tan also voiced his appreciation, emphasizing the program’s significant impact on underserved communities.
Tan provided each beneficiary with 5,000 pesos as cash assistance to help with travel expenses and recovery needs.
Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, highlighted the Alakdan Division’s commitment to supporting life-enhancing initiatives. In addition to the cleft surgeries, the program provided minor operations for cyst removal, benefitting seven other individuals in need.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Army taps Sulu LGU to provide free cleft surgery.”