'Santa Army' plays with children.

STO. TOMAS, Davao del Norte – Army soldiers don’t have to wear fatigue nor camouflage uniforms all the time. In this season of merry making, they can don Santa’s costume, too.

Thus, in an early Christmas party in this municipality held December 10, “Santa Army” entertained some 500 lumads and special children.

“Santa Army” is actually Corporal Julius P. Bulatano, with his red Sta. Claus costume, eyeglasses and long white beard and moustache. He sang, danced and did various magic tricks to the children’s delight.

The “Fun Day,” organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) office in partnership with 1003rd Infantry Brigade, was held at the covered court of the town plaza.

The morning program formally commenced with liturgical rites followed by the mass singing of the National Anthem. Welcome remarks were given by municipal councilor Julie H. Mantequila. Leilani Rafol, social welfare assistant, presented an overview of the Sto. Tomas local government unit’s Child Friendly program.

Lumad children performed a tribal dance while students from the Special Education (SPED) department performed dance numbers to showcase their talents. These were children from barangays San Jose, New Visayas and Talomo.

Col. Suerte delivers his Christmas message.

“We are very happy that our unit is part of this worthy activity. This kind of program will surely benefit the underprivileged children,” said Col. Lysander A. Suerte, newly installed 1003IB commander, in his Christmas message. “We will always support the Local Government in their undertakings in uplifting the lives of their people, most specially in promoting peace and development in the area. Merry Christmas and Happy New year to all!” he added.

Mayor Maximo M. Estella commended 1003IB for its Civil-Military Operations efforts. “In behalf my people, I congratulate the military for keeping up the good work in maintaining the peace and order in my area. I also appreciate their endeavor in rendering community-oriented services to my constituents,” he said.

Day Care workers, together with the soldiers led by Captain Harold A. Ho, the brigade’s CMO officer, facilitated the parlor games played by the children.