PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines - Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 visited the Lamb Center Children’s Orphanage and the Aloha House orphanage to donate supplies, clothing and toys, Sept. 14.
The orphanage supply drive was led and organized by who is passionate about building relationships and supporting the local community. “Our mission is not only to provide safe and quality schoolhouses but also to build good relations with local populace. Giving back to people in need is part of our duty and an orphanage came to mind,” said Steelworker 1st Class Zebulon Nelson.
Both orphanages are located in Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan, and host 20-25 children ranging from 1 to 6 years old.
The orphanage supply drive was made possible by donations from Detail Palawan members, with 40,000 Philippine Pesos (approximately $800 USD) raised. The Seabees were able to provide 35 packs of diapers, 32 packs of baby wipes, 14 sets of clothing, 19 boxes of baby formula, and 32 boxes of baby soap to the orphanages. Pastor Sonny Dix, the founder of The Lamb Center Children’s Orphanage thanked the Seabees
“These children and our staff really appreciate your donation. Thank you for taking the time to visit our home. Thank you for all you do.”
Equipment Operator 3rd Class Don Davidson did not hesitate to donate and was the first member to contribute. He later said that “I wanted to give aid to well deserving children.”
Since their arrival in April 2019, Detail Palawan has completed one schoolhouse in the village of Estrella and are currently building a second schoolhouse in the village of Malatgao. The schoolhouses will provide facilities to ensure a quality learning environment for over 312 local school children.
Throughout their deployment, the Detail has increased the interoperability between U.S. and Philippines by creating lasting relationships with Armed Forces of the Philippines Seabees, Marines and the people of the local community during execution of the projects.
“As Seabees, we play a huge role in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Theater and around the world creating these kinds of lasting relationships while strengthening local institutions,” said Lt. j.g. Samuel Newton, Det. officer-in-charge.
NMCB 4 is forward-deployed throughout the Indo-Pacific region ready to support major combat operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and to provide general engineering and civil support to U.S. and joint forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Construction Electrician 2nd Class Ji Han/Released