Bontoc folks walk to raise funds for dialysis patients

By Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay

BONTOC, Mountain Province –Two hundred individuals signed up and gave their monetary donations in support to “Walk for a Cause” initiated by the local government here as part of the 115th Foundation Day and 19th Am-among Festival of the municipality this September. 
    The activity aimed to help dialysis patients from Bontoc undergoing dialysis at Bontoc General Hospital generate funds for their weekly treatment.
    It was also a way of showcasing the “bayanihan (og-ogfo)” spirit wherein welfare of those in need is prioritized. 
    Human Resource Management officer Arleen Eickmee Gasmea said of 200 generous donors who registered, 93 joined the Walk for a Cause.
    It started at Bontoc Municipal Capitol grounds going to Am-ancho, Barangay Bontoc Ili where the solid waste management facility of the municipality is located. 
    She added with 200 individuals who registered, a total of P43, 000 was generated from the cause.
Gasmena said the collected amount has not been turned over to the intended recipients as the monetary donation is still open for those who would like to donate.
    Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., who joined the activity, extended gratitude to everyone for their support of the activity. 
    He cited positive response from national government agencies, provincial offices, municipal offices and community to the endeavor.       
    “The amount may be small but we hope it will lessen the financial burden and help recipients in their treatment,” the mayor said.