Cagayan de Oro 4th Infantry Division Santa Soldiers

Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division ditched their usual battle gear and donned Santa hats and costumes for the division’s first-ever “Santa Run.”

More than 100 soldiers joined the fun activity to spread Christmas joy around Camp Evangelista in Barangay Patag, Cagayan de Oro on Thursday morning.

Some “Santas” even gave away candies.

The best Santa costume was awarded during the closing ceremonies.

Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, division commander of the 4ID, said they wanted to showcase the lighter side of the Army and send a message of peace.

The division also opened their Christmas Village to the public for the first time last November.