THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) extended its mission beyond the battlefield on October 20, presenting a donation of P200,000 to the House of Hope Foundation for Kids with Cancer, Inc.
The proceeds, generated from the Command’s annual “Golf-for-a-Cause: Drive for Hope” tournament, underscore the military’s sustained commitment to supporting young patients in need.
Led by LtGen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, commander of EastMinCom, the turnover ceremony took place at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Bajada.
The check was formally presented to Arleen Aportadera, the foundation’s fundraising manager, with board members, doctors, and the young cancer beneficiaries and their parents in attendance.
A four-year commitment
Now in its fourth year, the “Drive for Hope” initiative has become a yearly advocacy for EastMinCom, symbolizing the Command’s “compassion beyond duty.”
Bergante emphasized that the funds are targeted toward critical patient care.
“Through our ‘Drive for Hope’ initiative, we aim to bring light, joy, and encouragement to children undergoing treatment… These proceeds will contribute to reducing treatment abandonment and ensuring that these children have a safe, clean, and healing environment as they go through recovery,” he stated.
He added a personal note of solidarity, reminding the children that EastMinCom “stands beside them, bringing hope, courage, and compassion every step of the way.”
Ms. Aportadera expressed the Foundation’s “heartfelt appreciation” for the continuous generosity.
Meanwhile, Dr. Cheryl Lyn Diez noted that the military’s efforts significantly uplift the Foundation’s core mission of providing essential care and treatment.
Following the presentation, Dr. Diez led Bergante and the EastMinCom team on a tour of the SPMC Children’s Cancer Institute.
