Warming the hearts of the people

Early on the morning of February 7, the courtyard of the Sen Thượng border guard station was already buzzing with laughter. People from the Hà Nhì and Si La ethnic groups, among others from surrounding villages, gathered at the station to receive the affection and gifts shared by officers, soldiers, and various organizations. More than just a distribution event, this was a festival of unity for those living on the frontier.

Located at the border intersection, Sín Thầu is a territory of particularly important strategic significance. However, due to the fragmented terrain, the lives of the local people remain difficult. To contribute to a “warm Tết” for the residents, the Sen Thượng border guard station coordinated with the provincial Labor Federation and connected with benefactors and volunteer units to organize the program.

The “Zero-VND booth” within the festival was a special highlight this year. There were no price tags, only smiles and the dedication of the officers and soldiers. A total of 186 gift sets containing essential necessities, from rice, cooking oil, and fish sauce to items specifically for the Tết holiday, were handed directly to the people. This booth was made possible by the joint efforts of numerous units inside and outside the province, including Hoa Ba Education, Trade, and Service Co., Ltd., the health centers of Điện Biên Phủ, Tuần Giáo, Mường Ảng, and Tủa Chùa, the provincial Center for Disease Control, BIDV Điện Biên, Tam Tam Điện Biên Tourist Car Company, Phở Cường restaurant, and the Hà An Import-Export Trading Service Co., Ltd. from Hà Nội.

Witnessing the villagers eagerly heading home with meaningful gifts just before the holiday, Phùng Xè Tư from Chiếu Sừng village shared with emotion that although life in the village has improved, there are still many worries when Tết arrives, especially for households in difficulty. He noted that the people were very happy and excited to receive such care from the officers. For this Tết, many families no longer have to worry about oil or salt, and the addition of gifts and chưng cakes has made their hearts much warmer.

The program became even more meaningful with medical examinations, consultations, and the free distribution of medicine. In just one morning, nearly 350 people, primarily the elderly, women, children, and ethnic minorities, received specialized healthcare. Moving beyond general internal medicine, the working group deployed specialized methods and sub-clinical techniques such as ultrasound and ECGs to provide accurate diagnoses. Based on these results, doctors provided dedicated advice on care, treatment, and appropriate nutrition, as well as ways to prevent specific diseases common in the harsh living conditions of the border.

Tightening the military-civilian affection

According to Senior Colonel Lê Đức Nghĩa, Deputy Political Commissar of the provincial border guard command, this activity is part of the 2026 program plan implemented synchronously across border guard stations in all 15 out of 15 border communes of the province. With the spirit of sharing and caring for the people so that “no one is left behind,” each unit develops a plan and calls for charitable organizations and individuals to host suitable programs.

Senior Colonel Lê Đức Nghĩa emphasized that with the responsibility and affection of soldiers, the command views caring for students and border residents not just as a duty but as a mandate from the heart. For many years, social and charitable activities have been maintained by the border guard forces, particularly during the spring season. These efforts strengthen solidarity and consolidate the people’s trust in the Party, the State, and the armed forces, thereby building a solid “people’s heart” posture to actively participate in protecting territorial sovereignty and national border security.

The vibrant atmosphere of the festival was further elevated by the activity of wrapping “Green Chưng cakes” and playing folk games. Hands usually accustomed to holding guns or daily labor came together to wrap square cakes, while traditional games echoed with the cheers of the crowd. Tẩn Minh Long, Chairman of the provincial Labor Federation, affirmed that this is a practical activity maintained for many years. He stated that the program is even more meaningful when held in border areas where people still face hardships, as it affirms that no matter where they are, the workers and the people always have the trade union and all levels of government standing by them to ensure a warm Tết.

Although the program has concluded, its echoes remain. The meaningful Tết gifts and the bright smiles seen at the border are clear evidence of the military-civilian bond. Amidst the vast border forests, spring has truly arrived early, bringing faith and hope for a prosperous and happy new year to the far western land of the Fatherland.