Being deployed as member of the Forward Support Medical Team to augment in the ongoing intensified combat operations in 104th Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, Camp Luis R Biel II, Isabela, Basilan, CPT Mary Anne G. Rulloda NC, a military nurse for 12 years and fresh from maternity leave, although worried, left her two sons to answer the call of duty.
During her tour of duty in Basilan, she was dispatched at far-flung areas like Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan where medical assistance is not readily accessible. Being a military nurse, one is to provide the same care needed to both military and civilian locals alike. One particular patient stood out, a 5-year old young boy who slipped in the pavement causing him to hit his forehead on a wooden plank. The accident left a 5 cm-laceration on the child's forehead. The mother was distressed at the sight of the bleeding injury and her son's incessant crying. Fortunately, CPT Rulloda, an experienced perioperative nurse, has an abundance of experience under her name, being able to quickly discern emergent and non-emergent cases. Hence, prompt treatment was delivered not only to the child but to the mother as well.
"Magsukol si Kaam si lahat kami" (It's very fortunate thing you are here in our place.) "Magsukul manamal" (Thank you very much!) These simple words from a mother convey more than gratitude and indebtedness - these are the local's way of saying, "Job well done!"