Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana addresses WIA soldiers during the department's pre-Christmas gift-giving day. (DND Facebook)

In recognition of their service to the country, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana gave Christmas gifts to 36 soldiers who were wounded in action.

The gift-giving took place at the Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, said PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

The activity is part of the DND Christmas tradition project “KAPAGDAKA” (Kapakanan at Gabay sa Dating Kaanyuan) that promotes the welfare of persons with disabilities, particularly soldiers who were injured while on official missions.

PA chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay assisted Lorenzana in distributing grocery items and cash incentives to the 36 wounded soldiers, who came with their dependents.

“Ito po’y nagbibigay sa amin ng tuwa at moral na kami po ay nabibigyan ng pamasko. Kami po ay nagpapasalamat sa mga binigay niya na aginaldo. Kami rin po ay natutuwa na kami po ay binigyan niya ng pansin at halaga (This gives us happiness and boosts our morale. We thank them for these Christmas gifts. We are happy because we feel that we are valued and given attention),” said Sgt. Renato Eucogco, who is still recovering after he lost his legs in the Marawi Siege in 2017.

The DND chief said “KAPAGDAKA” also has additional programs like the distribution of wheelchairs and assistive devices; livelihood trainings for wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers and their dependents; skills development opportunities to equip the WIA as they return or get discharged from the service; and other future programs that will further provide assistance to the wounded troops.

“Let me express my most serious thanks to you all for your great service to the nation, even risking your lives to serve our country and the people. I hope that you find comfort with the assurance that the government is at your back to support you and your families. You may have lost or injured a part of your body, but your spirit has definitely become stronger,” Lorenzana added. (PNA)