PH and US troops inaugurated a new multi-purpose hall in Barangay Tibulao, Carmen, Davao del Norte, under Balikatan 41-2026, boosting community development, disaster preparedness, and humanitarian assistance through medical missions, livelihood support, and strengthened AFP-US partnership. 
NATION

PH-US troops inaugurate multi-purpose hall in Davao del Norte

jing villamente

The Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry (Agila) Division participated in the Philippine-US ribbon-cutting and inauguration ceremony of the newly completed multi-purpose hall in Barangay Tibulao, Carmen, Davao del Norte, on 6 May, as part of the Engineer Civic Action Program (ENCAP) under the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) activities of Balikatan Exercises 41-2026.

The completion and turnover of the facility highlighted the enduring partnership between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Armed Forces in supporting community development and disaster preparedness initiatives.

The multi-purpose hall is expected to serve as a vital venue for barangay activities, emergency response operations, and other community engagements.

Alongside the inauguration, PH-US troops also conducted humanitarian civic assistance activities, including a medical and dental mission that benefited 1,253 residents through consultations, distribution of medicines and vitamins, and the issuance of 162 reading glasses.

Educational and livelihood support items such as laptops, television sets, solar power kits, slippers, and other essential supplies were likewise distributed to local schools and residents.

Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, underscored the significance of the activity in strengthening community resilience and international cooperation.

“The ribbon-cutting and turnover of this facility symbolize the strong alliance between the Philippines and the United States in promoting humanitarian assistance, disaster preparedness, and community development. This is a testament that Balikatan extends beyond military training and directly benefits the Filipino people,” Luzon said.

He added that Balikatan Exercises 41-2026 continue to strengthen interoperability and reaffirm the shared commitment of both nations toward humanitarian service, peace, and security.