Residents of Ligaya village in Rosario, Northern Samar have received holiday treats from the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The outreach program dubbed “Pamaskong Handog” of the 1st Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (NSPMFC) aims to keep the spirit of Christmas alive amid the global health crisis by helping less fortunate families.

Maj. Edwin Oloan Jr., 1st NSPMFC commander, said some 1,128 residents of the upland village benefited from the program, which includes nutritious food and distribution of face masks, school supplies, and vitamins on Dec. 22.

Children also received cash and toys, while parents were given food packs, he added.

“We are grateful and overjoyed to be part of another outreach activity to make Christmas brighter and merrier for the people here despite the coronavirus disease pandemic,” Oloan said in a statement on Friday.

He thanked all the PNP personnel and private individuals who extended support for the project including the village officials who helped them facilitate the activity.

“During this time of the year, we are reminded of the old adage it’s better to give than to receive, which rings true to us as we look for ways to give and share our blessings to children and other people in need,” Oloan said.

The mobile force company also decorated the village with Christmas lanterns as a symbol of hope amid this challenging time. (PNA)