In a heartwarming gesture, the Mangaldan Police Station organized a special night for underprivileged street children, offering them food, gifts, and a sense of belonging just in time for Christmas.

Instead of fleeing, the children approached the officers when they arrived at Barangay Poblacion, where the kids are often seen late at night.

Familiar with the kindness, the children boarded the police vehicle, which brought them to the station for a surprise treat.

The event, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Roldan Cabatan, aimed to share the true spirit of Christmas.

"Bilang responsibilidad sa kapwa tao... ito ‘yung maisi-share namin ngayong pasko. [Ang] essence ng pasko [is to] share your blessings sa mga nangangailangan," Cabatan said.

At the station, a hearty meal of pancit and chicken awaited the children, many of whom are unable to attend school due to poverty.

"Gusto namin ng impact sa mga bata. Kasi yun ang kailangan ng mga kabataan, ‘yung maipakita na may nagmamahal sa kanila," Cabatan said.

The police said early care and attention can prevent these children from losing hope and straying into harmful activities later in life.

"God’s love for the children na mahalaga sa Panginoon... Nawa’y napasaya natin ang Panginoon sa pagpapasaya sa mga batang ito," Pastor Odie Sante, the station's spiritual adviser, said.

One of the parents, Melinda Biagtan, who scavenges with her husband to support their five children, expressed her gratitude for the thoughtful gesture.

"Kahit papaano nabigyan ng pamaskong handog ang mga anak ko. Maraming salamat po!" she said.

Aside from the feast, the children also received small gifts.