CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — More than 2,600 Bantay Bayan volunteers across Pampanga were recognized for their tireless service to their communities in a thanksgiving event organized by the provincial government.
Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda led the program to honor the province’s village peacekeepers who serve without pay yet remain steadfast in their duty to maintain peace and order.
Among the honorees was Villamor Fajardo of Barangay Bulaon, City of San Fernando — a tricycle driver by day and Bantay Bayan volunteer by night.
“It feels good to help others. As long as I’m alive and strong, I’ll continue serving as a Bantay Bayan,” he said.
During the event, each volunteer received ₱3,000 in financial assistance under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program, as part of the provincial government’s continuing support for community volunteers.
Aside from the cash aid, attendees also received food packs — a small token of appreciation for their daily sacrifices.
The gathering included Bantay Bayan representatives from several towns, including Bacolor, Mexico, Minalin, San Simon, and Sto. Tomas. Also present were Board Member Lucky Labung, Dr. Kaye Naguit, representatives from DILG Pampanga, and the Pampanga Police Provincial Office.
“We are deeply thankful to our governor and vice governor for remembering us and recognizing our work,” said Joel Montalla, a volunteer from Barangay Sto. Niño.
The provincial government expressed gratitude to the volunteers, calling them the “unsung heroes” who safeguard the safety and order of Pampanga’s communities — even as most residents rest at night.
Source: Pampanga PIO
