The dedication of the Philippine Army and the Philippine Air Force in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) was admirably palpable yesterday, 26 September, as super typhoon "Karding" (international name Noru) pounded Central Luzon with its strong winds and torrential rains.

­Our valiant men in uniform quickly launched relief efforts in various affected areas as the supertyphoon continued to destroy properties, and sadly, even take lives.

Earlier, this sense of duty in helping kababayans and the Filipino value of bayanihan, was stressed by PA chief Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., who assured the readiness of the Army's HADR teams in aiding Filipinos in calamity-stricken communities.

In a press briefing, General Brawner said, "Rest assured, your Philippine Army—in fulfilment of our oath to serve the people and secure the land— is always ready to lend a helping hand to our kababayans in calamity-stricken areas."

Art for a cause

Meanwhile, visual artist and missionary Kristine Lim paid homage to Filipino soldiers in her recent art exhibit. Lim partnered with Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Rommel K. Tello, Acting Commander of the second Infantry Division and the staff of the 2nd Infantry Division of Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal.

Brig. Gen. Tello led in the unveiling of three masterpieces by Lim, which the artist donated to the camp during the Philippine Tourism Month. Lim, who is also referred to as the "Artist on a Mission" by creative peers and her community, is a resident of Antipolo in Rizal.

Brig. Gen. Tello's division has a partnership with Art Lounge Manila and shares the common vision of raising awareness to once again bring in tourists to visit Camp Capinpin. Lim's art exhibit also aims to raise funds for the entire 2nd Infantry Division and support the army and their families, all while giving honor to the men and women who continue to dedicate their lives for our country.

Lim's masterpieces revolve around a heroic theme, portraying in particular the Father of the Armed Forces of the Philippines: Lapu-lapu.

Camp General Mateo M. Capinpin is the latest military camp to become a tourist destination. Travelers enjoy its scenic and lush surroundings, which includes lush trees, gardens, and rolling hills in the backdrop.

Joining Brig. Gen. Tello at the opening were his wife Mary Ann Tello; Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retirees Affair Col. Georgie G. Doming GSC (INF)PA; Division Inspector General Col. Wilfredo V. Isaac (MNSA0 PA; Col Wilfredo V Isaac (MNSA) PA; Commanding officer, 2DCAU Col. Mario Lito I. Retirva GSC (iNF) PA; Multi- Sectoral Advisory Board, Chairperson Agustiniana Avelino; Lt. Col. Freddie F. Calosing GSC (INF) PA, Asst. Chief of Staff for CMO, G7; and the staff of the 2nd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.