ZAMBOANGA CITY – Some 685 children staying in a former Abu Sayyaf Group stronghold were given toys and school supplies during a gift-giving activity by a non-government organization (NGO) in Patikul, Sulu province on Sunday, Nov. 20.
The children, residents of Mount Sinumaan Complex, wore big smiles on their faces as they received school supplies, toys, and bicycles from Save the Children of War, an NGO focused on helping children of war-torn areas in Mindanao.
"Nakita naman natin ang sitwasyon dito ng mga bata, bihira lang sila ngumiti (We saw the situation of children here, they hardly
smile),” said Save the Children of War-Mindanao founder Dr. Arlyn Jawad Jumao-as.
Mount Sinumaan Complex is a far-flung barangay which was almost abandoned during the height of government operations against the Abu Sayyaf years ago.
A community of around 700 families, the area has three teachers and a covered court serving as a school for students from kindergarten to Grade 6.
"Tinatawag namin ang lugar na ito na (We call this place) Sinumaan Complex at (and) SGT- MB, meaning Mount Sinumaan, Mount Gasam, Mount Tunggol, Mount Mungit, and Mount Bagsak. This was our playground with the ASG,” explained Brig. Gen. Eugenio Boquio, 1101st Brigade commander and guest speaker during the activity.
Boquio was elated over the gift distribution but said it was Capt. Ron Villarosa, commander of the 6th Special Forces in Talipao, who requested the NGO to provide the needs of the children in the area.
Jumao-as believes the children will end the cycle of violence if they are taught love and peace.