jan-mar 2012

Our CoverThe Philippine Army celebrates its 115th Foundation Anniversary standing tall

and with great pride. Through the years, it has faithfully served the people and has vigilantly secured the land. It has remained a dynamic and versatile organization and has continued to evolve to make it a world-class army that is a source of national pride.

With the inception of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) and through the implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan,” the Philippine Army is doing its best to transform its vision of being an Army that is truly the pride of the Filipino nation into a tangible truth. Army personnel have been enjoined by Lt Gen Emmanuel T Bautista, 54th Commanding General of the Philippine Army, to embrace these two precepts that would serve as their guide to attain good governance and performance excellence so the Filipino people will get the Army that they deserve.

As it reaches its 115th year of existence, the whole Team Army reaffirms its core purpose of “Serving the People, Securing the Land.”

Note“A world-class Army that is a source of national pride”

Ed

ito

r’s

A hundred and fifteen years ago, our Army was created amidst the chaos of a revolution that aimed to overthrow a colonial ruler that enchained us to a frenzy of abuse, neglect, reign of terror and religious indifference for 300 years.

Although lacking in training and equipment, but abundant in patriotic spirit, the Army was able to put up a good fight and disrupted the battle plans of a better trained and equipped foreign army.

Through the years, this indomitable force, that drives Filipino soldiers to strive to overcome all odds, enabled them to endure and eventually to succeed during the Fil-American War, World War 2, and Korean War. It also inspired them in their conduct of Civic Action activities in Vietnam.

After the challenging years of Martial Law, a new army emerged out of the 1986 EDSA Revolution. The soldiers were heralded as heroes because of their role that helped toppled a dictator in a peaceful overthrow of the Marcos regime.

The trying years during the Cory

Administration, confronted us with the

new phenomena of coup attempts and

military intervention in the country’s

political affairs, but those few rouge

elements in the military were quickly

suppressed by the majority of the Army

that remained loyal to the constitution

and their mandated duty to the country.

The 1990’s saw the Army

containing the three-decade-old

communist insurgency, a losing cause

that was the product of the archaic

Cold War but was still struggling

because of the economic condition and

social neglect in the far-flung areas of

the country. This reality and dilemma

stirred the Army to change its strategy.

Thus, out of the innovative approaches

of several field commanders, came

the strategy of the whole-of-nation

approach and people-centered

security/human security approach.

With Lt Gen Emmanuel T Baustista,

at the helm of the Army leadership,

this would be the centerpiece of the

Army’s support to the AFP in winning

the peace. As the primary implementor

of the IPSP Bayanihan and the Army

Transformation Roadmap, the Army

is on its way in achieving its vision of

a world-class Army that is a source of

national pride.

In this edition of the ATN, we will be

able to read experiences and success

stories of the IPSP “Bayanihan”. From

General Santos City and Sarangani

province in Mindanao; to Donsol,

Sorsogon in the Bicol Region; to the

“Sendong” flood affected areas of

Cagayan De Oro and Iligan Cities;

to the earthquake areas of Negros

Oriental, our Army has proven that

IPSP “Bayanihan” is indeed working

and is bringing peace and development

to our people.

Honorable Board Member Eleanor

Saguiguit of Sarangani province best

described it when she said, “They

are much disciplined (73rd Infantry

Battalion soldiers) and napakabait nila

sa mga tao, especially to the locals.”

She further even said, “The truth is we

have all the reasons to be peaceful and

73IB is instrumental in showing us that

realization.” /CAF

|1| ARMY TROOPERS NEWSMAGAZINE

The Army Troopers Newsmagazine is the official command publication of the Philippine Army. It is published quarterly by the Philippine Army through the Civil-Military Operations Group, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila 1201. It provides a forum for the open and honest exchange of ideas and concepts concerning the Philippine Army. The articles published in the Army Troopers Newsmagazine do not reflect the official view of the Philippine Army except when specifically stated. Though we do not accept responsibility for the opinions of the authors, we do accept responsibility for giving them the opportunity to be published. This publication is approved for public release. Official distribution is to units and offices of the Philippine Army, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine government. For reproductions or re-publication, authority resides with the author. Requests can be forwarded directly to the author or through the Editor-in-chief who will make the necessary representation. The ATN reserves the right to edit the materials submitted. The Army Troopers Newsmagazine accepts articles written either in English or Filipino. Contributions and requests for information can be addressed to: The Editor-in-chief, Army Troopers Newsmagazine, CMOG, PA, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila 1201.

OFC | Serving the People, Securing the LandIFC | Editor’s Note

2 | IPSP Bayanihan: A Year Past 6 | The Philippine Army: Keeping Its Covenant with the Nation

10 | JTFGS: Light of Hope, Water of Life for T’bolis and B’laans Through Bayanihan

16 | Rising from Sendong’s Wrath Through the Bayanihan Effort

26 | 903rd Inf Bde: Establishing a Bayanihan Eco Park in Donsol, Sorsogon

32 | Kalinaw in Sarangani: A Bayanihan Experience38 | Are Soldiers Just for Combat?42 | OFW: Overseas Filipino Warriors 44 |Butt Wound Becomes Soldier’s Lucky, Love Charm46 | Personnel Matters Most 50 | New Philippine Army ID System51 | Service School Courses for 2nd Qtr CY 201253 | Foreign Courses54 | Performance Evaluation of Field Units (Best-Best) for CY 201156 | My CMO Involvement: A Life Changing Experience

60 | AFPSLAI to Raffle Off 40 Cars on its 40th Anniversary Promo

60 | Philanthropic Donors

IBC | CG, PA Guidance

OBC| CG,PA Anniversary Message

“A world-class Army that is a source of national pride”Editorial Board

LTGEN EMMANUEL T BAUTISTA AFPCommanding General

MGEN RENATO A DAVID AFPVice Commander

BGEN MAXIMO G CARO AFP Chief of Staff

COL FRANCO NEMESIO M GACALSecretary Staff General

COL LEANDRO A LOYAO (FA) GSC PAAC of S for Personnel, G1

COL PAOLO LEO MA G MICIANO (FA) GSC PA AC of S for Intelligence, G2

COL ANGELITO M DE LEON (FA) GSC PAAC of S for Operations, G3

COL ROBERT M AREVALO (QMS) GSC PAAC of S for Logistics, G4

COL RODEL MAURO R ALARCON (INF) GSC PAAC of S for Plans, G5

COL TEODORICO D RAQUEÑO MNSA (GSC) PAAC of S for CEIS, G6

COL FRANCISCO L PABAYO (INF) GSC PAAC of S for Civil-Military Operations, G7

COL ARNEL B DELA VEGA (INF) GSC PAAC of S for Education and Training, G8

COL QUIRINO S CALONZO (CAV) GSC PAAC of S for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, G9

MAJ HAROLD M CABUNOC (INF) PAArmy Chief, Public Affairs

COL FELIMON T SANTOS JR FA (GSC) PAGrp Cmdr, CMOG, PA

Editorial StaffMAJ CARLO A FERRER (INF) PA

Editor-in-Chief

LYDIA V CABAJAREditorial Consultant

CPT ARBERN ROMMEL D ABIVA (FA) PACirculation Manager

2LT CLAIRE ANN V DOLINO (INF) PAProduction Supervisor

CARINA C PASTRANOManaging Editor

COL BIENVENIDO R DATUIN JRMAJ JULIUS CABARLOC

MAJ HAROLD M CABUNOCMAJ ROBERTO V DELA CRUZ

ARMY MUSEUM RESEARCH STAFFKAREL S DABU

CZASSY RODULFOContributors

SGT CESAR CUENCAPFC CESAR P LOPEZ

PFC NOEL M BERNARDINOPFC RAMON M MEGO

Photographers

CPL JUAN P RAYMUNDO PFC MICHELLE R LLANDELAR PFC MARYJANE C TABLIAGO

ABEGAIL A GARCIALayout Artists

|2| Army Vision: By 2028, a world-class Army that is a source of national pride

Army Core Purpose: Serving the People, Securing the Land

|3|Army Vision: By 2028, a world-class Army that is a source of national pride.


The year 2011 saw the Philippine Army gradually winning the peace for the people. The Army Chief Lt Gen Emmanuel T Bautista said that, “since the ‘Bayanihan’ was implemented last year, the level of violence was reduced, the number of the NPAs has been reduced and the reduction are mostly surrenders.”

On IPSP BayanihanRecent developments which have

resulted from the implementation of the new campaign plan IPSP Bayanihan could be deemed as its first fruits. The commanding general cited one of the biggest gains was in Bukidnon wherein 80 members of the New People’s Army, including their top leader, Benjamin Salusad, also known as Nonong, surrendered to 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion in South Poblacion, municipality of Maramag.

The big number of surrenderees and the firearms they brought in with

them were considered a significant feat not solely to the military but more so to the people of Bukidnon. But beyond that, it was a clear manifestation of how the concerted efforts—the breathing spirit of Bayanihan among the stakeholders, in this case the local government of Bukidnon, elders and tribal leaders, and the military—were able to achieve sustainable peace and security in the province.

Similar developments will be duplicated in every area of the country as, “stakeholders are to expect an invigorated Philippine Army that will

pursue the twin strategic directions – the implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan and the Army Transformation Roadmap,” the Army Chief said. This will be the direction and the precepts that the Philippine Army will continue to pursue now and into the future, according to him.

The IPSP Bayanihan is a shift from an entirely militaristic solution to a people-centered security strategy. It is an open document for the general public since it intends to tie up the involvement at the widest range of stakeholders in addressing the peace and security concerns of the nation. The campaign plan gives the same weight to combat and non-combat means in the pursuit to attain peace. The Army Chief stated that unlike previous campaigns of the military, “our perspective now is

The surrender of 80 members of the New People’s Army in Bukidnon is a result of the concerted efforts exerted by the provincial and local government officials, community leaders, the military and other stakeholders. Photo shows the firearms surrendered by the group in a ceremony attended by (from left) Hon Laurencia S Edma, San Fernando, Bukidnon mayor; Hon Alecia P Resus, mayor of Maramag; Lt Gen Arthur I Tabaquero, EastMinCom Commander; Datu Morit Angawa, vice commanding officer of squad 2 Sangay Platon Pampropaganda 3, GF6, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee; Hon Gov Alex P Calingasan of Bukidnon; Benjamin Salusad, alyas Nonong, commanding officer of SPP3, GF6, NCRMC; Maj Gen Victor A Felix , 4ID commander; P/SSupt Lyndel Desquitado, PNP deputy provincial director of Bukidnon; Hon Vice Mayor Levi Edma of San Fernando; and Hon Leandro Jose H Catarata, mayor of Valencia City.



winning peace and not merely defeating the enemy. Therefore, we endeavor to reduce human rights violations and we try to abide by the law, Rule of Law and International Humanitarian Law. It is a very big emphasis. It is part of the strategic concepts and deliberately we give emphasis to that.”

Human rights violations was one of the most critical issues that afflicted the military organization for the past years. Therefore, in the IPSP campaign plan, one of the two strategic approaches to win peace is the people-centered/human security approach which is premised on the understanding that the people’s welfare is put at the center of the military operations.

“The first year,” Lt Gen Bautista admitted, “was a learning process for us. It was the first year we implemented IPSP and we have identified some gaps and we will address those gaps.” At present, the Army is in the process of uplifting the personnel’s better and deeper understanding of the campaign

plan while the skills and training in engaging, dealing with the stakeholders are being improved, according to him. Personnel’s skills and training, the Army Chief added, will be focused on Peace and Development Teams; Inter-agency and Stakeholder Engagement; and Mission Planning.

Thus far, the campaign plan has been greeted with mixed reactions. There are those whose reactions are positive and welcome their involvement in the planning, implementation and evaluation while, “merong nagrereklamo (there are who complain), criticizing Bayanihan, but you can almost predict yung mga grupo na gumagawa noon, sila pa rin (the groups who do, it is still them). In fact, ang sagot nila sa Bayanihan (their response to Bayanihan) is more violence, more extortion, and intensifying the armed struggle,” the general stated. “But otherwise, we have groundswell support for our campaign. It is one of the most popular campaigns that we have undertaken in terms of acceptance from our stakeholders. We

are inspired by that kind of acceptance from our people and we will continue to involve them,” he further expressed.

For those who refused to accept the government’s peaceful means and continue to threaten the people’s well-being the Army Chief has this to say, “We will run after them and we will apply legitimate military force against them. However, we will always take into consideration that our military operations are within the context of the overall plan of peace and security, with due adherence to Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, and Rule of Law.” Bayanihan, according to the Army commanding general, is a combination of CMO, of non-military activities, also military and combat operations.

On Army TransformationAccusations of corruption, human

rights violations and other issues plagued the Armed Forces of the Philippines. These are the realizations that the military organization has to



face and overcome to move forward to complete its vision. On the part of the Army, it sought to transform—thus the Army Transformation Roadmap came to fore—a long-term transformation and governance program that will make it a world-class Army that is a source of national pride.

In a firm tone, the Army Commanding General emphasized, “Marami tayong issues na nakikita, na binabato sa atin (We have seen a lot of issues that are being thrown to us) and therefore there is an urgency for us to really change, starting from each individual. That’s the essence of change, recognizing na kailangan nating magbago at magdesisyon tayo na magbabago (that we need to change and we must decide to change). We have a commitment to change and we will do it collectively as a team and our roadmap is the Army Transformation Roadmap. Ang vision

natin ay maging world class tayo, na tayo ay ipinagmamalaki ng ating kababayan, ng buong sambayanang Pilipino na sinasabi nila: ‘Ito ang aming Army at ipinagmamalaki namin ito.’ (Our vision is to become world-class, for our people to be proud of us, that our people will proudly say: ‘This is our Army and we are proud of it.’)

At present, the ATR is being cascaded down to every individual soldier and other members of the organization. It is imperative, according to him, for every soldier to internalize his individual responsibility and individual commitment—being part of the organization. “The way we conduct ourselves does not only reflect on our individual personalities but it reflects on the entire Philippine Army organization. And so therefore we should have a responsibility and a commitment to uphold the image and interest of the organization,” he said with finality.

Message to the troopsIn closing, Lt Gen Emmanuel T

Bautista has this to say to the troops, “Gabay natin ang (Our guide will be the) ATR and IPSP Bayanihan; gagawin natin ‘yun dahil ‘yun ang tamang gagawin at kaya natin gawin ito dahil iyon ang tama (we will do and can do them because they are the right things to do). Believe that we can do it and let us commit to do it. Transform. Pursue our campaign in Bayanihan and ATR. Respect the chain of command. Focus lang tayo sa trabaho natin at pagiging professionals, gumawa ng tama, hindi korupt, sumusunod sa Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law at rule of law. Focus on our jobs and be professionals, do what is right, no corruption, and adhere to the Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law and Rule of Law.

For better understanding and deeper appreciation, the ATR is cascaded to the Army rank and file.



Birth of the Philippine Army

The history of the Philippine Army is closely interwoven with the history of the nation. Since its inception, it has taken the cudgels in the nation’s fight for freedom and democracy against colonial and imperialist powers. The Army defiantly raised its banner and spearheaded the armed revolution against the Spanish colonizers in 1896. It also led the fight against the Americans after the outbreak of the Fil-American War in 1899. And during World War II, the gallantry of Army soldiers were once more tested against the Japanese, highlighted by the valiant stand of Filipino forces in Bataan and Corregidor.

Being the oldest and largest component of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Army traces its glorious heritage to the Filipino Revolutionary Army organized at the Tejeros Convention on March 22, 1897. In this historic convention, General Artemio Ricarte was elected as Kapitan Heneral, making him the first Commanding General of the Philippine Army. With the birth of the Revolutionary Army, the loose, heterogeneous units of the revolution were formally organized into one organization. The courage

and tenacity of the freedom fighters in the various armed revolts against the Spaniards led to the declaration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898 at the Headquarters of the Filipino Revolutionary Army in Kawit, Cavite.

The Army under the American Occupation

The outbreak of the Fil-American War in February 1899 saw the freedom fighters arrayed against a formidable foe. The ill-equipped and ill-trained Filipino Army was no match to the American military might. It was said that on the first day of the war, around 3,000 Filipino revolutionists died as compared to 60 Americans killed in action. This is considered one of the most lopsided wars in modern

military history. Realizing that the Filipino Army did not stand a chance against the American forces, General Antonio Luna, Commander in Chief of Central Luzon operations proposed reorganizing the Army for guerrilla warfare to fight a protracted war. Despite the heroic struggles, the Filipino defenders suffered reverses one after the other in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. With the capture of President Emilio Aguinaldo and his subsequent oath of allegiance to the United States, the war ended.

There was no authentic Philippine Army during the advent of American occupation from 1901 to 1935. The Philippine Constabulary was organized to maintain peace and



order, while the Philippine Scouts was tasked against foreign invasion. These military organizations were mostly led by Americans while its enlisted personnel were mostly Filipinos. However, neither of them was an authentic Philippine Army for and by Filipinos.

The Philippine Commonwealth Army

With the establishment of the Philippine Commonwealth in 1935, President-elect Manuel L. Quezon sought the services of General Douglas MacArthur in drawing up a blueprint for the national defense program. This was embodied in the National Defense Act, also referred to as a Commonwealth Act Nr. 1 which was enacted into law on December 21, 1935. This legal fiat provided the legal framework for the organization of the Philippine Army, composed of a small regular force, with the Philippine Constabulary as nucleus, and supplemented by a large reserve force composed of male citizens between the ages 21 to 50 who have undergone the prescribed military training.

With the issuance of Executive Order Nr.11, the top three officers of the Philippine Army were appointed, namely: Brig Gen Jose de los Reyes as Chief of Staff, Brig Gen Basilio Valdes and Col Guillermo Francisco as 1st and 2nd Deputy Chief of Staff, PA, respectively. With this development, Headquarters Philippine Army was formally organized at the Oriente Building in Binondo Manila. To most, formally organizing the Army pursuant to the provisions of Executive Order No. 11 was essentially an issue of the Army’s maximum effectiveness at the minimum cost. It was also stressed that the organization must be useful in times of war and peace.

To save on money, the Army undertook a gradual build-up for a period

of 10 years with an annual quota of 40,000 men. It also undertook the organization of training camps throughout the country and institutionalized pre-military training for rudimentary knowledge on military matters. During this time, the men were paid five (5) centavos and were known as “sundalong cinco.”

During this period, the Army Central and General Staff was composed of Brig Gen Vicente Lim as Assistant Chief of Staff, War Plans Division; Colonel Fidel Segundo, Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Operations and Training and Col Rafael Garcia, Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel and Supply. Later in 1941, a re-organization of the Army Central and General Staff took place and which was patterned after the US Army system. The Commonwealth defense also had the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) for training new regular officers and providing a pool of quality officers. The Philippine Military Academy Class 1940 was the first class to graduate under the National Defense Act.

The initial services of the Philippine Army were the Adjutant General Service, the Judge Advocate Service, the Quartermaster Service, the Medical Service, the Ordnance Service and the Chaplain Service. Later, the Chemical Corps, the Army Nurse Corps, Inspector General Service and the Finance Service were added. The Army, tasked

with the entire defense of the Philippines had an air and naval arm, namely: the Philippine Army Air Corps (PAAC) and the Offshore Patrol (OSP).

The Philippine Army during World War II

In the early part of 1941, Japan made aggressive moves to fulfill its ambitions for the establishment of a Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. The situation was precarious and on July 26, 1942, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt, invoking the provisions of the Tydings-McDuffie Act called into the service of the United States all organized military forces of the Philippine Commonwealth. When war came to the Pacific in December 1941, two regular Army divisions and 10 reserve divisions formed part of the defense of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) under the command of General Douglas MacArthur.

Though the outbreak of the war caught the national defense preparations only halfway through, the Filipino and American defenders made their gallant stand. Outgunned and inexperienced in war, they heroically repulsed the Japanese

Trainees render the salute during a formation at Camp Murphy (now

Camp Aguinaldo), 1938



onslaughts. Lt General Masaharu Homma, Commanding General of the 14th Japanese Army was tasked to conquer the Philippines in 50 days but failed to achieve the deadline. Despite the fall of Bataan, and later Corregidor, the Filipino and American forces had successfully stunted Japan’s grand design to seize the Philippines within a short period of time which could have disastrous results for the rest of Asia and Australia.

The day of deliverance came when the allied forces led by Gen MacArthur landed in Palo, Leyte in October 1944. Not long after, the Philippine Army was re-established in Tacloban, Leyte. After Manila was liberated in March 1945, Headquarters Philippine Army, was moved to the capital city. Despite all the odds, Filipino soldiers who went underground kept the resistance high against the Japanese. By mid-1946, five Philippine Army divisions were organized out of the recognized guerrilla units.

The Philippine Army after War

With the final capitulation of the Japanese forces in September 1945, then President Sergio Osmeña designated Major General Basilio Valdes as Chief of Staff, Philippine Army. The following year, the Central General Staff of Headquarters Philippine Army was reorganized. This reorganization enabled the Army to operate as a distinct military organization and not just merely a section of the USAFFE headquarters. In 1948, the 10 Military Districts were deactivated and four Military Areas were constituted.

At the onset of the 50’s, President Elpidio Quirino issued Executive Order No 389 reorganizing the Armed Forces. Said order created Headquarters Armed Forces of the Philippines as General Headquarters

(GHQ, AFP) and also activated the four major services - the Philippine Army, Philippine Constabulary, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy.

Not long after the war, the Philippine Army extended a helping hand to war-torn South Vietnam which was overrun by communists from North Korea (PEFTOK). These Philippine Army units earned the admiration and respect of United Nations forces who fought alongside with them. The Filipino soldiers had proved their mettle and courage in the Korean battlefront. In the 60’s, the Philippine Army also sent contingents to South Vietnam, the PHILCON and later the PHILCAG on a

mission of peace. The Filipino soldiers felt a deep sense of fulfillment as they have contributed immensely to the easing of the people’s deprivation and sufferings through the conduct of medical and dental services and other socio-

economic and technical endeavors for the Vietnamese.

In the 70s, President Ferdinand E Marcos issued Presidential Proclamation No. 1081, which placed the entire Philippines under martial law effective September 21, 1972. The AFP, specifically the Army, was tasked with the responsibility of safeguarding the transformation of the country into a New Society. With the Army’s experience during martial law, it ceased to be a mere fighting force whose only concern is to safeguard

the nation from internal and external threats. It instead assumed an important role as a constructive force that helped paved the way to national progress. During the period, the Army also came up with the Kamagong concept primarily to beef up its forces in response to the sudden escalation of insurgency and secessionism nationwide. A bold 10-year Revitalization Program was launched in 1976 which primarily aimed to develop the command as a potent force in defense and nation-building. About a decade after, the Army’s participation in

the February 1986 EDSA Revolution built up its image in the eyes of the people. Being an active player in the bloodless revolt, it played a crucial part in the restoration of democracy. The Command during this time continued to fight the dual threats to national security on two fronts: against the NPAs and the Muslim secessionists, while simultaneously upgrading its personnel and adopting new methods of winning the hearts and minds of the people. The Special Operations Team (SOT) concept was vigorously pursued in the late 1980s to weaken the base of insurgents

President Sergio Osmena and MGen Basilio

Valdes listening to Gen Douglas MacArthur’s address

to the Filipino people in Tacloban, Leyte, 1944.



by using force on one hand and civil-military operations on the other.

The Philippine Army Today

The Philippine Army is presently organized into combat, combat support and service support units. The combat units are the 10 Infantry Divisions, the Light Armor Division and the Special Operations Command. Providing combat support are the five Engineer Brigades, Engineer Construction Battalions, the Signal Group, the Civil-Military Operations Group, the Intelligence and Security Group and the Army Artillery Regiment. The service support units which include Training and Doctrine Command, Army Real Estate Office, Army Support Command, Finance Center, Army Management Information Center, Army Reserve Command, Accounting Service and Army Personnel Management Center sustain the conduct of Army ground operations.

To carry out its mission, the Philippine Army has laid certain capability objectives as outlined in the Army Transformation Roadmap 2028. Among these are: a brand image consistent with the Army’s Core values, recruitment

and retention of the best and the brightest, excellence in ground operations and a professional Army loved by the people. Overall, it seeks to transform the present PA into the Philippine Army of the future. The Philippine Army’s vision is to become a world-class Army that is a source of national pride by 2028. The vast experience of the Army in and outside the battlefront had transformed it into one of the most seasoned fighting units in the world, one that is keenly adept in winning the hearts and minds of the people, making it a well-rounded organization in the service of the Filipino nation.

The Philippine Army today could

be said to be in a transition stage towards a more efficient, profesional, and modern organization. As the Army modernizes and marches in the 21st century, it is necessary to examine the path trodden, to see the successes and the failures, to see the traditions and the glories, as well as the defeats and setbacks, so that these may guide the path to the future and provide depth and greater meaning to the Army’s existence. The past, after all, is the bedrock on which an organization is built on.

Troops in formation inside PHILCAG Hqs, South Vietnam.

Revolutionary Army officer posing with his troops.

Present-day Army tactical squad.



What happened in Sitio Klolang and Sitio Datal Salvan in Barangay San Jose, General Santos City is a proof that bayanihan is a moving spirit that could change the B’laans and T’bolis’ gloomy way of living into one that is full of bright hope and full of life’s excitement.

For the village folks of these two sitios, life will never be the same again. Thanks to the bayanihan efforts of Joint Task Force Gen San (JTFGS), under Col Joselito E Kakilala, School Head William Moraca and the philanthropic

individuals of General Santos City, these villagers will no longer suffer from the inconvenience of not having electricity and from lack of potable water.

These marginalized B’laan and T’boli tribesmen had long lived under the mercy of kerosene and flashlight batteries to light up their houses when evenings start to set in. Dwelling on top of a mountain range 1,500 meters above sea level, they had to trek sharp and dangerous curves for almost an hour to buy their essential

requirements for their respective households because life then was a little bit depressing.

Even T’boli and B’laan children could not focus in his studies because their evenings were spent in pitch black and could not review their lessons to be ready for the next day classes. Worse, they don’t have potable water to drink and have to endure going down at the foot of the mountain to fetch some water.

There may be ongoing developmental and infrastructure



projects of the government but they are intended for the lowlanders leaving the indigenous highlanders on the sidelines. Colonel Kakilala explained that because of the poor living conditions of these tribal folks, education is their least priority. To them, finishing the primary education seems enough and their children’s children would be just like them. With this kind of mindset and deprived opportunities for higher learning, young girls set their focus on getting married and to have a family of their own, even at a very young age of 13.

Maybe to some village

believers who prayed hard

for a miracle, God (Allah)

answered their prayers

through JTFGS and Mister

Moraca. It was destiny

that Colonel Kakilala got

to know Mister Moraca for

both have the passion to

render service and had the

same purpose-to give the

T’bolis and the B’laans a

positive outlook, by offering

them little conveniences in

life.

• Lydia V Cabajar

Mister William Moraca’s electricity-generating windmill installed at Sitio Klolang Primary School rooftop.



Mister Moraca, a self-made man, is a devoted head teacher who divides his time teaching students of Sitio Datal Salvan Elementary School and Sitio Klolang Primary School. He was an insurance agent before the teaching profession enticed him. He first taught in a remote community in South Cotabato. His second teaching assignment to the highland communities of Datal Salvan and Klolang in General Santos City made him aware of the sad plight of the T’bolis and B’laans as well as their school-age children.

Colonel Kakilala, on the other hand, is known for his strategic thinking and tactical approach to counterinsurgency, gallantry in combat and social concern for communities, attributes that led him to be the recipient of Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award during the 111th Anniversary of the Philippine Civil Service last 11 September 2011.

As Commander of JTFGS, under the 10th Infantry Division, PA, Colonel Kakilala and his teams

“If we can uplift the

lives of these indigenous

people,

of officers and enlisted personnel are responsible for the conduct of independent or joint operations with General Santos City Police Office and other law enforcement agencies to protect the people, to secure vital installations, and to pre-empt, counter, neutralize the threat groups and to respond to any

COL JOSELITO E KAKILALA, JTFGS Commander, drinks from the newly installed water faucet at Sitio Datal Salvan.

crisis situation in order to ensure continuous and economic endeavors in the city. They adopt a 5-pronged approach in accomplishing their assigned mission that include pre-emptive operations, deterrent measures, intelligence operations, support operations and strengthening and expanding security enhancers.

Colonel Kakilala came to know Principal Moraca



we can achieve

sustainable peace and

development in the end.”

when the latter accompanied Principal Catas of Bagong Silang Elementary School which was

initially the recipient of JTFGS’s feeding program. The two got to know each other better after several meetings. Colonel Kakilala took notice of Principal Moraca’s ability for innovations and inventions in helping improve the learning environment of the indigenous people’s children as well as in uplifting their well-being

and in improving the quality of life of

these far-flung communities.

The JTFGS head further said,

during the interview by the ATN

staff, that, “I was inspired to partner

with him (Moraca). I’ve realized

that partnering with the principals,

or head teachers, is crucial in our

campaign in winning the peace

since we find it easy convincing

the parents to send their children

to school. I am optimistic that

education will emancipate our less-

privileged kababayans from the

clutches of poverty which is one of

the root causes of insurgency.”

Mister Moraca, on the other

hand, realizing that the village folks

were in need of running water, used

his knowledge in engineering and

came up with a magnetic force

water system which he installed

during the later part of 2011 with

the assistance from JTFGS. It was

impossible to build a water system

because of the sitio’s high altitude,

but because of Mr. Moraca’s

magnetic force fan, water can now

reach the communities directly from

the stream of Sitio Datal Salvan.

They will no longer have to go down

to the foot of the mountain for the

water is already at their doorstep.

In the same way, having water in

the community gave the people in

the communities to observe proper

hygiene practices like taking a bath

everyday and brushing their teeth,

said Colonel Kakilala. Fetching

water doesn’t pose a problem

anymore hence they can clean their

bodies as often as they want to take

a bath.

After the water installation, it

was followed by the electrification

project with Mr. Moraca coming up

with a power generating windmill.

Again, Mr. Moraca sought the help

of JTFGS in providing and hauling

of the materials used for this project.

The windmill was installed at the

rooftop of Sitio Klolang Primary

School.

Mr. Moraca was able to build a

rotary windmill type of galvanized

The electrification project of Mr Moraca and JTFGS will bring a conducive learning environment to the B’laan and T’boli children.



iron intended for ventilation but

he later changed it by setting

up a dynamo and putting up an

alternator with 12 volts wet cell

battery which produces 220 volts

with an ampere of 3, 000 watts

capacity. With this invention, Mr. Moraca helped facilitate teaching-learning in the classrooms with the aid of educational programs aired by the cable television donated by JTFGS.

Similarly, Colonel Kakilala raised the idea to Mr. Moraca of the 38 households in Sitio Klolang being energized using the rotary power generating windmill, which the latter answered in the affirmative. The former worked

out with philanthropic partners from General Santos City who donated wet cell batteries, electric wires and LED bulbs for the 38 households.

Colonel Kakilala further said

the installation of electrification

and water system became a game

changer in the lives of the upland

folks as they are given positive

outlook in life. What Mister Moraca

and he are asking from the parents

in the area in return is to motivate

their children to go to school so

that they could study. Colonel

Kakilala reasoned out that “once

these students are educated, they

will become professionals later on.

They’ll be able to have decent work,

they can provide food on the table

three times a day and they can

also send their children to school

to be educated. Mine is strategic

mindset, if we can uplift the lives of

these indigenous people, we can

achieve sustainable peace and

development in the end.”

As for the electricity, the T’bolis

and B’laans children could now go

over their lessons in their respective

homes because the communities

now enjoy having lighted houses

when night time starts to set in.

Another significant highlight of

having the power of electricity in the

highlands, Colonel Kakilala further

narrated, the village folks were able

to watch Manny Pacquiao’s boxing



School children of Sitio Klolang Primary School watching at the Sitio’s first-ever cable television.

bout with Juan Miguel Marquez

last November because JTFGS donated a cable television. For the first time ever, the adult villagers can now watch regular television shows while the children can enjoy educational programs being aired that could add up to their learning skills.

Aside from the materials and manpower he provided, Colonel Kakilala supplied one sack of rice for Mr. Moraca’s feeding program for his students at Klolang Primary School and Datal Salvan who are mostly T’bolis and B’laans. The JTFGS head also shouldered the meals of residents who volunteered their services in putting up said above-mentioned projects. Colonel Kakilala, as Mr. Moraca’s force and financial partner provider, said he plans to install a power-generating

windmill like that of Mr. Moraca’s, at JTFGS headquarters to save on the camp’s monthly electrical consumption.

JTFGS and its partners in General Santos City have been fully supporting Mr. Moraca’s undertakings. “All of our undertakings are in cooperation with our other stakeholders. We are thankful that many affluent individuals here in General Santos City have this philanthropic attitude of helping others. We are just fortunate that they are looking for an institution that they could support to see the high impact of their projects, hence JTFGS is in tandem with other organizations/sectors here in General Santos City,” Colonel Kakilala further said.

These CMO initiatives may be

considered a minor contribution of JTFGS but it has a high and major impact in the lives of these marginalized people of General Santos City. They have found an ally in the men-in-uniform as well as in the other stakeholders of the city. The JTFGS is bent on pursuing the objectives of Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan which according to Colonel Kakilala is continuously gaining headway in General Santos City as proven by these projects. He further said that JTFGS will not let its guard down in quelling any forms of terrorism in the area to win the elusive peace and to continue uplifting the lives of the indigenous people living in the

area.



(To have a full account of how our soldiers fared at the time of the struck of “Sendong” occurrence and to check on the desolation resulting from it, the Army Troopers Newsmagazine staff visited the area of Northern Mindanao (which included specifically Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Iligan City, Lanao Provinces). Nonetheless, it was an opportune time for us to see for ourselves and take into account the tragic incident that befell the local populace particularly those victims of that typhoon and how the Bayanihan spirit was manifested at that moment in time.)

Typhoon Sendong was one of the worst typhoons to hit Northern Mindanao. It washed off and damaged properties while costing the lives of many. Badly hit were Cagayan de Oro, Iligan City and Lanao provinces. About nine barangays were severely affected in Cagayan de Oro, 28 (of the 41 barangays) in Iligan of which 10 were severely affected.

It was quite disheartening to see the areas devastated by typhoon Sendong and to personally see the plight of our countrymen. They may be thrown in such situation yet managed to smile now, for the soldiers, the different government agencies as well as non-government organizations and foreign

agencies had collaborated to reach out to them - within the spirit of Bayanihan. The pains and burden they carry have also been eased out somehow with the assistance extended in the immediate time possible by the military and other stakeholders of said areas.

Three months had passed yet the typhoon left a deep scar in the hearts and minds of the local populace because of its dreadful effect. Some haven’t overcome yet while others are still coping.The Responders

• CagayandeOroPersonnel from 4th Infantry

Division were organized into three teams with the division’s equipment on disaster response set as there was a continuous downpour that time. Even those who had gone home were asked



to return to the headquarters for they would be all there to extend a hand.

When floods started to rise up, the soldiers were alerted. Motorboats were dispatched, ropes, vests and others were given to the teams. Each team was assigned a certain area.

Here and there, the soldiers would get calls for assistance and immediately responded especially on areas where most numbers of people were clamoring for help. VIPs, government officials, media, ordinary folks, all sought for assistance amidst the raging typhoon.

While on their way into rescue operations, the responders could see houses damaged and even washed off and lives sacrificed. It was quite demoralizing on the part of the soldiers to see their countrymen helpless when they came to rescue them.

In an interview with Lt Col Patriarch Robinson P Pel, commanding officer of 4th Signal Battalion, Army Signal Regiment, one of the team leaders during the rescue and retrieval operations, he told the ATN staff that Emily Homes, Carmen was the first destination. On board a motorboat, as his team moved going to that area they saw how gruesome the condition

was. Members of the team saw lifeless bodies afloat while women, children and men were on the roof – some were already sick - trees and electrical posts uprooted, houses brought down and washed off due to strong current and even cars piled up along the road.

His team talked to the people and assuaged their fears. “Ninais man naming matulungan ang lahat

Maj Gen Victor A Felix AFP, 4th Infantry Division Commander, distributing relief goods to Sendong victims in Cagayan de Oro City.



at mailigtas ang mga nasa panganib, isinuong man namin ang pansarili naming kaligtasan, hindi po iyon naging sapat upang maiwasan ang pagkamatay at pagkawala ng ilan,” he lamented. It was indeed a difficult situation on his part and on the part of the victims. He was saddened by that. “Nakakalungkot isipin ang mga pangyayari… nakakalungkot mamasdan ang mga kamag-anak na umiiyak at tumatangis sa harap ng bangkay ng kanilang mahal sa buhay. May nawalan ng magulang, anak, kapatid… mayroon ding buong pamilya ang nasawi,” he recalled.

Lieutenant Colonel Pel’s team stayed in Carmen as each team

was instructed to stay in its area of assignment until rescue and relief operations was concluded. His team also sent cadavers retrieved to a nearby funeral homes and informed the people so they won’t be having a hard time looking for their relatives. It was already daytime when the team left the area to move on to Isla Puntod of Brgy Balulang, which had the same condition. However, with the river’s strong current, Lieutenant Colonel Pel and his team’s motorboat had bogged down. It went with the flow of the current until it reached the area. “Masyadong malakas ang agos ng tubig sa ilog, hindi po ito kinaya ng dala naming motorboat kaya naging

manu-mano ang paggamit ng bangka,” he recounted. So the team made use of a rope and a pulley to have the boat moved from different spots in the area with the assistance also of the residents of Isla Puntod. Three choppers of the Philippine Air Force came and facilitated the immediate transfer of residents to the evacuation areas.

For his efforts, Lieutenant Colonel Pel was awarded with a Bronze Cross Medal. The same is true with the rest of the officers and men of 4ID who participated in the Disaster Relief and Rescue Operations.

On that crucial night (16th December 2011), TSg Freddie D

Cpt Danny M Bacal recalls his experiences during the disaster operations, how he held his emotions seeing bodies of his own relatives and saving families during retrieval operations.

TSg Freddie D Viador, chief clerk of OG7, 4ID tells how he was able to save 31 families.

LtCol Patriarch Robinson P Pel, Commanding Officer, 4th Signal Battalion, Army Signal Regiment, recounts his team’s disaster operations.



Viador, the chief clerk of Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, G7 of 4ID, happened to be at Tambo, Brgy Macasandig when the water rose to critical level. He just got back from Manila and decided to pay his friends a visit at said place. At that time, the rainfall was light. It was around 11:30 p.m. when the downpour started to get heavy with strong winds indicating storm signal number 2.

According to Technical Sergeant Viador he stayed with his friends’ house as he feared flood that might trap him. It was around 12:30am when he decided to leave for camp. However, as he opened the door, he was met by water rushing its way in. He could already hear screams from people asking for help…”Tabang! Tabang!...Taga-i mi ug pisi!” (Help! Help!...Give us rope!) The

place then was so flooded. The whole area was so dark.

Inside the house where he was, he immediately thought of rushing up everyone to a higher place which could not be reached somehow by flood. Seven of them including him walked to the back door and rushed to a high rise residence. His friends together with other residents tried getting up to the rooftop and were successful to do so. “Ginamit nila ang likod ko pati balikat bilang hagdanan patungo sa bubong,” he said.

As there were still children and some adults who needed to be rescued, he saw a refrigerator floating and made use of it for rescuing and brought them one by one to the house’s roof. “Hindi pa rin kami ligtas doon kasi pataas ang tubig halos umabot

na sa bubong. Naghawak kamay kami dahil baka tangayin ng malakas na agos. Hanggang sa may naanod na malaking troso, doon kami humawak para nga naman maligtas kami ‘pag bumigay ang bubong. Sa kabila nito, bagama’t basa kami at giniginaw hindi kami pinanghinaan ng loob. Dasal ang nagsilbi naming gabay at armas, “ the sergeant added.

Technical Sergeant Viador was able to help out 31 families totaling to 132 members. His gesture was recognized by the Office of the Barangay Council of Brgy Macasandig.

On Cpt Danny M Bacal’s account, he was saddened to see his own relatives dead while conducting rescue operations as part of the 52nd Engineer Brigade’s rescue and retrieval team especially in Tibasak, Brgy Macasandig.

Temporary shelters for Sendong victims at Xavier Ecoville.



Captain Bacal, who’s from said place, told the ATN staff that they got all the dead bodies and brought them to the chapel while his team also coordinated with the barangay officials to identify them. Some of those who could not be identified were buried in the mass graves. But he said, he has some cousins who were washed ashore and were recovered in Camiguin and Bohol. Their survival was a result of their clinging on to the log that helped them locate other survivors.

Captain Bacal, a victim of Sendong, added that his house was severely damaged that he let his family stay in Bukidnon. According to him, he may be grieving because of the death of his

relatives, but he set aside the emotions and instead worked as a soldier-rescuer.

• IliganIn Iligan, Task Force “Makalintad”

was organized, led by Brig Gen Roland C Amarille. The 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Magbalantay) Brigade under Col Carlo M Nava was designated Disaster Rescue and Retrieval Unit (DRRU) on the ground.

As soon as typhoon Sendong started, the general public was informed about the storm warning. In coordination with the Iligan City Philippine National Police, storm warning was issued through mobile public address system and units under the Task Force were alerted.

Around 11 p.m. of 16 December 2011, the 2MechBde, Command Group with one platoon proceeded to Brgys Tubod, Mahayahay and Hinaplanon and started rescue operations. Thirty minutes after, troops of the 4th Mechanized Battalion were deployed at Brgys Hinaplanon, Santiago, Sta Felomina, Bayog, Barinaot, Tambo and Malambagohon.

It was about 1:30 a.m. 17 December 2011, that the Army troops from 103rd Infantry Brigade (under Col Daniel A Lucero) were deployed and immediately transported one Scout Boat team to Hinaplanon, Iligan City for immediate deployment while another one Platoon from headquarters, TF

The Crisis Management Committee, facilitated by TF “Makalintad” Command Group, convenes with Iligan City Mayor Lawrence Cruz.



“Makalintad” was deployed at Brgy Hinaplanon. Meanwhile, the Disaster Response Unit of 35th Infantry Battalion was also deployed to Iligan City. Air Force personnel from the 1st PAF SAR sortie and Naval Special Operations Unit 5 worked closely in rescuing and retrieving dead bodies at sea. Additional Disaster Response Units (DRUs) from 35IB and 547th Engineer Construction Battalion arrived and helped out in the disaster response operations.

In an interview by the ATN staff with Colonel Nava, his unit maximized the utilization of mobility assets to include M35 trucks, KM450 and even Elf to facilitate immediacy in transporting evacuees as well as the cadavers.

He pointed out that there was a high number of casualties that became more

evident the following morning. And that there was devastation on infrastructure and high toll on human lives caused by typhoon Sendong. Eventually after the water subsided, a thick layer of mud covered the area.

He also added that voluminous logs came from the mountains of Lanao Del Sur and debris that ran through Mandulog River. These actually covered a vast area along the coast of Iligan.

In all these, “with the immediate deployment of Army DRUs, many lives were saved,” Colonel Nava further said.

And in so far as his unit’s operations is concerned, it actively participated in the relief and rehabilitation operation to continue until the situation in Iligan city normalizes.

The Collaborative EffortPrior to the coming of the typhoon,

4ID according to its Commander, MGen Victor A. Felix immediately established its Task Force on Disaster Response Operations (DRO) that would address any eventuality brought about by typhoon “Sendong.”

Logistical requirements as well as manpower were all set then. Until that fateful night…

In an interview with Major General Felix, his men established the major points of relief & recovery response. “Eventually, pinababa na rin namin ang engineer (referring to the 52nd Engineer Brigade under Col Reynaldo Mutiangpili) contingent to help”, he added. Since the Task Force was organized, this lessened

Beyond exhaustion, the Philippine Army Team spent hours, even days, trying to search for missing bodies of victims of Tropical Storm “Sendong.”



the difficulties that arouse during their operation. Personnel were tasked on different assignments in the barangays, in the distribution of relief goods from the different benefactors, in the conduct of medical mission, and in the search and retrieval operations.

Liaising played a pivotal role in working out for a better coordination in all areas of concern with the stakeholders. As such, 4ID also placed officers as well as the use of its mobility in each of the agencies extending assistance to facilitate immediate support to the victims of Sendong.

The joint effort of the Philippine Army and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)

paved the way for the victims/evacuees to have their temporary shelters especially in the lot owned by Xavier University. Five hundred homes were constructed by the Army, the materials came from DSWD in the placed tagged as “Xavier Ecoville.” This place has 12 buildings with 10 doors each building complemented with complete facilities in the area, with separate kitchens and toilets per building. Potable water was made possible through the purifier installed then by the Ateneo University of Cagayan.

The “Xavier Ecoville” families totaled to 399 at present. As per information from Ms Iris Montellano of the Xavier University Community Building Team, each family will stay

at the temporary shelters. No family-evacuee could avail of double housing or shelter at one moment in any areas that have temporary shelters. She also emphasized that families at the Xavier Ecoville are being taught on organizing themselves.

Other agencies assisting were the local government unit (LGU), Red Cross, non-government organizations and some foreign agencies.

On the other hand, under Task Force “Makalintad”, as it aimed to ensure synchronize rescue efforts, initial coordination was made with all concerned agencies --- Philippine National Police (PNP), Local Government Units (LGUs), other

Soldier-engineers of the 52nd Engineer Brigade checking the lighting system and working on the windows of the temporary shelters for the evacuees at Xavier Ecoville.



Official Government Agencies (OGAs) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). Activating the Iligan City Coordinating Center to synchronize ongoing Disaster Response Operations was one of the key decisions made by the LGU in the critical days following the disaster.

With the effort of the TF “Makalintad” Command Group, the Crisis Management Committee’s activation was immediately facilitated. It then convened with lligan City Mayor Lawrence Cruz who subsequently declared the City under state of calamity.

Eventually, in addition to the DRO units, a search and rescue unit of the Philippine Coast Guard as well as the

PG 390 of the Philippine Navy also arrived at Iligan City to join in the DRO.

So far, 16 evacuation centers were set up to provide temporary shelters to the evacuees.

“Through the concerted efforts of government agencies, LGUs, NGOs, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the AFP and PNP, our humanitarian assistance and disaster response was made possible and therefore, will continue to address the victims’ needs in Iligan City,” Brigadier General Amarille said in an interview.

The Umbrella of HopeA drawing tagged as “Umbrella of

Hope” manifests the convergence of efforts of all agencies and individuals.

An excerpt from the letter of Ms Rose Imperial, a volunteer who wrote Colonel Nava to thank the military, “What struck me the most about the photo (umbrella drawing) is that the Army and the Department of Health (DOH) are at the center segments of the drawing which also contained the other officials and persons whom the student think helped them. The police, DSWD, teacher, best friend, doctor and the mayor were some of those who were also included in what I feel an umbrella of hope. For volunteers like us at the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) and the Land Rover Club of the Philippines (LRCP) who went to Iligan blind about the real situation on the ground, this validated our initial assessment

The “Umbrella of Hope” of a grade school student that manifests the convergence of efforts of all agencies and individuals.



that the military is the most efficient and most responsive segment of government in lligan after Typhoon Sendong.”

The drawing by a student named Rheon Jericho C. Tacastacas, of the Iligan City East Central School (ICECS), disproved an anecdote Ms Imperial heard from Father Adam Bago, parish priest of the Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Brgy Digkilaan. According to her, she met him on January 11, and he shared to her that it’s good that the military is now more active in relief operations so that the people will have a kinder view of the military. Unlike before, he said, that

when he asked some of the children in his parish (which also covers Brgy Mainit and Rogongon) what their ambitions were, most of them answered that they wanted to be an MILF.

While going around the hinterlands of Iligan City, that story was in the mind of the lady volunteer. However, contrary to what she was told, she saw that most of the people and even the kids were comfortable with the presence of the military. Some even had photos taken with the soldiers. Ms Imperial also mentioned that she

knew of several volunteers who feel proud to have served with the military on their missions.

In the end, she thanked the 2MechBde, the head and staff of the TF “Makalintad”, 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division who provided them with the right information and who served as dependable guides and escorts during their relief operations.

She added that the logistical support given by the military was also very valuable in their medical missions and relief goods distribution in the hinterlands.

BGen Roland C Amarille, Commander, TF “Makalintad”, 1st Infantry Division, PA giving instructions to Col Carlo M Nava, 2MechBde Commander, and the Philippine Air Force personnel.



Cagay-anons and the Iliganons on the Army soldiers

The Cagay-anons as well as the Iliganons are coping with what had happened. Slowly, they are putting into pieces what was left to them. As per impression, the Kagay-anons as well as the Iliganons are glad to have the Army soldiers whose presence was felt so prominently during the disaster that brought forth relief to the local populace. The soldiers, unmindful of their personal safety, rescued, responded to the call, retrieved lifeless bodies and even handed over relief goods.

For the local populace, moving on is a difficult thing to do but with the help

from all the stakeholders, including the Army, they have been given the light and the courage to move on. On their faces could be seen how grateful they are for the help.

Conclusion

The collective effort of all stakeholders were seen in the “Sendong” occurrence. Each agency has reached out to alleviate the plight of the local populace.

Through the Bayanihan effort, different agencies - local and international as well as NGOs and other individuals --- paved the way for the local populace to rise up from Sendong’s wrath that easy and

simple. They may have experienced their lost yet became strong and steadfast to face all the challenges. With Bayanihan spirit, nothing is impossible to achieve.

Members of the 4th Infantry Division as they respond to the needs of the populace.

(The ATN staff would like to thank the 4th Infantry Division especially to its Comdr, MGen Victor A Felix, to the AC of S, G3, Lt Col Maurito I Licudine, to the acting AC of S, G7, LtCol Michelle B Anayron Jr., 4SigBn Cmdr, ASR, LtCol Patriarch Robinson P Pel, to the 4CMOBn under Maj Eugenio Julio C Osias IV, to Cpt Christian C Uy; to 103Bde Comdr, Col Daniel A Lucero, to the 2MechBde, LAD Comdr Col Carlo M Nava and all their respective staff.)



In keeping with the government’s National Greening Program (NGP), the 903rd Infantry Brigade, under Col Felix J Castro Jr., initiated the establishment of a Bayanihan Eco Park at Sitio Magaragad, Brgy Sibago, Donsol, Sorsogon in coordination and cooperation with other stakeholders of the province.

The Eco Park project will be the Brigade’s and other stakeholders’ contribution to the worldwide effort in addressing the adverse effects of • Lydia V Cabajar

Military and civilian residents of Donsol,

Sorsogon contribute their efforts to make the

project a reality. Col Felix Castro Jr. briefs the stakeholders

regarding the proposed Bayanihan Eco Park

project.



global warming. At the same time, the Eco Park will help preserve the mangrove forests of Sorsogon province and be able to provide an additional source of income for the barangay folks.

Colonel Castro said, in an interview conducted by the ATN staff during a visit to the Brigade last December 2011, the endeavor will also encourage other local government units (LGUs) and local government agencies (LGAs), non-

government organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs) and people’s organizations (POs) to participate in the NGP by way of setting a model community that is a product of the Bayanihan spirit. Likewise, he said the project will also inculcate among fishermen and farmers the importance of caring for the environment and the benefits that they will gain.

Donsol municipality usually attracts local and foreign tourists during months of December to May

when whale sharks, locally known as “butandings,” visit the waters in the area. During this time, the residents in the area earn extra income from tourists who usually stay in nearby Brgy Dancalan. However, fishing remains to be their main source of livelihood.

The influx of tourists resulted to the construction of many resorts in Brgy Dancalan. Mangroves planted along the shorelines were removed to give way for the construction of buildings in the area.

Hand-in-hand, the people of Donsol start to plant mangrove seedlings. Blessing of the Mangrove seedlings prior their

plantation to the proposed site of the Eco Park.



However, there are fears that these changes would greatly affect the feeding habits of the whale sharks as the mangroves contribute to the productivity of planktons that the “butandings” feed on. Eventually, the whale sharks may look for and transfer to other areas where they could nestle in. The Brigade sees Brgy Sibago as another tourist attraction in addition to Brgy Dancalan. Hence, 903rd Infantry Brigade deemed it right to establish an Eco Park in the area. Originally, the Brigade was only planning for a mangrove plantation project but during meetings with other stakeholders, the potentials of Brgy Sibago were tackled resulting to the conception of an eco park.

To be built in a 7.2-hectare area, the Eco Park will have the following attractions:

Mangrove Plantation - the Brigade plans to expand and improve by planting more mangroves. Colonel Castro said a concrete path will be constructed and huts will be set up in strategic points where tourists could take time to enjoy the sight;

Butanding Watching- Whale sharks usually feed in the area off Brgy Sibago. Bancas which set sail from Brgy Dancalan may proceed to the sea fronting the Eco Park’s proposed site. Stories have been circulating that whale sharks are seen in the area during months of

December. The existing mangrove plantation in the site could be one of the reasons why the butandings frequent the area. With the plantation being improved and expanded, it is expected that more whale sharks will migrate in the area.

Firefly Watching – Fireflies abound the area in the evenings more than those seen in Brgy Dancalan as claimed by some residents. They cited the lack of lighting in the area as one of the reasons why fireflies flock in the area.

BeautifulBeaches–The water is very clean, attractive and safe for swimming both for adult and children.

BeautyofNature –The scenic view will offer a relaxing atmosphere to tourists who simply want to appreciate the beauty of nature.

The 903rd Infantry Brigade is confident its strong partnership with other stakeholders in the area will soon make the project a reality. Stakeholders include the Donsol Municipal Government Unit; Brgy Council of Sibago, Donsol; Sorsogon Provincial Government; Provincial Tourism Office of Sorsogon; PENRO, Sorsogon; Philippine Information Agency of Sorsogon; Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources; Parasirang Donsolanon Abante Biryong Aagapay sa Kauswagan (PADABAKA); World Wildlife Fund Philippines; World Vision Philippines; Green Valley Development Program; Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Sorsogon Chapter; and Alpha Kappa Rho, Donsol

Even the children of Donsol lend their helping hands to help the

Brigade in starting the Eco Park project.



Chapter. These are the organizations

that are willing to walk the extra mile

to help other people improve their

plight by contributing their share

towards developmental efforts.

Colonel Castro further said that

the park will also serve as buffer zone

in case of typhoons and sea level

rise as the Brigade, representing the

Army in the area, will provide soft

engineering measures to mitigate

negative effects brought about by

climate change. There is still much to

be done to attract tourists in the area

but the Brigade sees the potential of

Brgy Sibago with the establishment

of the Eco Park and its effects to the

livelihood of the people.

“We are initiating peace and

developmental activities, especially

in assisting the municipalities of Pilar,

Donsol and Castilla with programs

that will promote tourism, disaster risk

reduction management, engineering

assistance through the building of

schools, and now in spearheading

the national government’s call to plant

trees as part of the NGP, “ Colonel

Castro concluded.

With their dedication, enthusiasm

and discipline, the Brigade’s personnel

have won over the populace and has

successfully encouraged the active

participation and involvement of

other partners/stakeholders in the

area in the endeavors of the Brigade

and local government units through

the Bayanihan spirit espoused by the

IPSP.

The 903rd Infantry Brigade is confident that its strong partnership with other stakeholders in the area

will soon make all the projects in Donsol a reality.

Elements of 903rd Infantry Brigade are giving their all-out support to

help uplift the lives of Sorsogon populace.


Army Core Purpose: Serving the People, Securing the LandEven in the Darkest Hours, Army Soldiers Heeded the CallA few days before Christmas 2011, some parts of the country were hit by flash floods when typhoon Sendong devastated the country. A few weeks later, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake followed by incessant aftershocks shook other parts of the archipelago. In harsh moments like these something good will likely surface. In these dark hours, a fine tradition of the Filipinos re-emerges—the spirit of Bayanihan. Though victims themselves, others tried their best to respond to their neighbors’ call. As all times, the Army soldiers with their skills, though lacking in equipment on disaster response, heeded the call and did their best to reach out to as many victims as possible. A feeling of uncertainty and even frustration especially among those who responded during the first hours, however, did not prevent them from doing their tasks with so much conviction. They never seemed to be aware of exhaustion nor hunger until somebody told them to eat or take a break so. They are the Army of the people---professional, capable and committed.



Kalinawin Sarangani:

Fine tuning the Fort Sarangani Tourism Estate Development Project with Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Board Member Eleonor Saguiguit and LtCol Adolfo Espuelas Jr, 73IB Commander.

Short accounts of the Sarangan stakeholders on how the spirit of Bayanihan has transformed their province into its present relatively peaceful state.

•CarinaCPastrano

A Bayanihan Experience



Never thought that peace could taste so sweet—this could have been what the people of Sarangani are feeling and thinking right now, enjoying a relatively progressive, secured, and peaceful province they could be proud of. For so many years, Sarangani Province has been reputed as one of the provinces in the southern part of Mindanao that is not a safe place to stay because of threats from insurgents and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. These are further aggravated by the presence of other criminal elements like bandits, sea hijackers and family feuds especially in Muslim communities that are commonly known as “rido” which could oftentimes escalate if left unchecked.

It was a very pleasant opportunity for the ATN staff during their visit in December 2011 at the home of the 73rd Infantry Battalion based in Kamanga, Maasim,

Sarangani Province, to meet one of the province’s legislators, Hon. Board Member Eleanor Saguiguit, who was kind enough to allow us

a short interview. She has been witness to the unit’s efforts being the Chairperson of different committees in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan like economic affairs; trade and industry; tourism; on children, women, and family relations; natural resources and environment protection.

On the part of the military, we also gained the insights of

soldiers deployed in far-flung areas of the province and learned the efforts they continuously exert to contribute in attaining peace in Sarangani Province. They are not soldiers whose accomplishments warranted gold cross medals or the like, according to LtCol Adolfo Espuelas Jr, but they have made considerable feats in works other than war. Together, the stakeholders of Sarangani have worked and are still working hand in hand for kalinaw (peace) to prosper and usher the development in the province.

The Culture of Peace

“Sarangani Province is one of the poorest provinces in the Philippines yet the most beautiful, for me and many others,” the lady legislator shared with the ATN staff. “It used to be conflict-torn,” she further continued, “coastal towns and interior barangays became

“Culture of peace starts

with the soldiers.”

Artist Kublai Millan’s sketch of the public art to be sculpted at 73IB Camp as a peace advocacy strategy.



target of insurgents’ attacks back then, while the residents became the mass base.”

The Army through the 73rd Infantry Battalion had a focal role in making the province relatively peaceful and in promoting Sarangani as a tourist destination, according to Honorable Saguiguit. “During inter-agency meetings, the military people do not just attend but take active parts not only in the area of security but also in the aspects of development, social and economic. They are extra milers, they do not only focus on their work but also give suggestions on development. I don’t know if it’s part of their training. But they are very good in it. And so in our overall analysis, on how we solve our problems in Sarangani, we don’t only talk about combat. In fact, halos di na namin napag-uusapan dito (we no longer talk about it here). Ang pinag-uusapan dito (What we talk about here) is how to tell our people we are better off being at peace with ourselves and with each other. And there is no reason to be in conflict among us,” the provincial lawmaker surmised.

“Somehow LtCol Adolfo Espuelas Jr (73IB Battalion Commander) made us realize how important for the local government to build the necessary infrastructures

in the remote barangays,” she surmised. “He has shown us that without the roads going to the interior barangays, we could not deliver the basic services as often as we wanted to,” she further asserted. The lack or absence of these services, according to the battalion

commander would only become a root cause for rebellion, an issue that could be exploited by rebels to lure the masses, she further stated. As a result, the local government had already set a budget for this year for the construction of complete infrastructure in the far-flung areas of Sarangani.

The provincial and local governments stepped up their campaign against illiteracy through the QUEST or Quality Education for Sarangani. Parents who didn’t fully understand the value of their children’s education because of poverty in the outlying areas

just made their children help the family earn a living. So the local government offered seminars for parents to address this and the soldiers took active participation. At present, every school-age child attends class and so far the campaign has been very successful, according to her. More teachers were hired while more school buildings were erected and the soldiers became partners in this endeavor. Education in the end will arm every Sarangan—whether Muslim, tribesman or Christian - as he explores his potentials and contributes for the advancement of Sarangani.

As for the tourism program of the province, Honorable Saguiguit was delighted to say

that “it has finally taken off. We have exerted so much effort and spent so many resources in the past but it didn’t happen,” she expressed. It was difficult, according to her, but the 73IB has played a major role in making it possible. The perception that the province is not a safe place to stay didn’t make it

Hon Eleanor SaguiguitBoard Member, Sarangani Province



popular among tourists. Not until the presence of the 73IB soldiers who did their roles in thwarting the threat groups by winning over the trust and friendship of the rest of the stakeholders. “If we trace the issues in Sarangani province, halos walang dahilang makita para magkagulo kami rito, (there is really no reason for us to be in conflict with each other), and the truth is we have all the reasons to be peaceful and 73IB is instrumental in showing us that realization,” she finally disclosed.

On the other hand, the location where the unit stays is one of the tourist attractions in the province. The “Peace Camp” as it is commonly known is atop a hill overlooking the scenic coastline of Sarangani Bay that becomes a favorite destination among local tourists. The soldiers themselves become tourist attractions in promoting Sarangani, “they are much disciplined and napakabait nila sa mga tao (they are very kind to the people) especially to the locals,” the lawmaker declared. The locals, most especially, are no longer afraid of the uniformed men, according to her.

The year 2011 became a very busy year for the 73IB as its “Peace Camp” turned out as a venue for team building activities like during the World Teachers’ Camp Day, Girls

and Boys Scouts Jamborees and for the social workers from General Santos City; or mere visits from the United Nations Executive Boards, the Peace and Development students from Japan, International Monitoring Team, Board Members of Sarangani Province, the national media, BSU Faculty, LGUs and LGOs from Davao del Sur among others. And for the first time, last year, the camp was chosen as the site for recollection of clergies coming from the whole of Region 12. The Joint Clergy Recollection led by Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez of the Diocese of Marbel was attended by 68 priests. Never before was a military camp used for that purpose. It must have been the word of mouth among the other stakeholders that led them to the military camp.

All these are manifestations of how the unit has risen above past negative impressions because of their discipline and professionalism. The unit has bridged the gap that resulted from incidents of the past.

As the lady legislator aptly said, “Development then was difficult to reach. Relatively at the present, Sarangani Province is fast progressing. There are still negative occurrences, but we cannot zero them in. Thank you, 73IB,” she finally quipped.

Combatants Turn Advocates of Peace

The unrestrained relationship that the present stakeholders of Sarangani enjoy right now didn’t come without a glitch. It didn’t

United Nations Executive Board listens to the briefing of LTC Espuelas on the role of 73IB in implementing the UNDP Projects in conflict-affected areas of Sarangani Province.



come as easy, at least on the part of the soldiers. They worked to earn the trust and friendship of the rest of the stakeholders and together they strived to sustain a continuing peace for development. Following are some of the soldiers’ accounts as to how they worked to be in the hearts and minds of the Sarangans.

In 2008, the 73IB, together with other Army units, was sent to the municipalities of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum, all of Sarangani, at the height of MILF attacks after the collapse of the memorandum of agreement on ancestral domain. The mission was to find, fix, and destroy the enemy. The post-conflict scenario was disheartening for the soldiers. They were unwanted by the people. Doors were slammed, windows were closed whenever their presence was seen. They were perceived as bringer of violence. “They would spit on us, those who experienced the martial law years,” according to 1Lt Rio Gammad, once Commanding Officer of Charlie Company operating within the areas of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum, all in Sarangani Province and Palimbang in Sultan Kudarat.

The children, in particular, were afraid of the soldiers. Their parents would never let them near the armed uniformed men, particularly elders from Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. There were clamor from locals for them to leave. They knew it was an enormous challenge that they have to overcome and they were willing to try anything just to win them over. But the 73IB soldiers didn’t give up that easily. Instead they consulted with the local government units and other stakeholders who bide them to undergo the Culture of Peace seminar, the local government’s instrument for personal and institutional transformation.

All the officers and enlisted personnel underwent the seminar for better appreciation not only of the people they serve but more so about themselves. It was after all, in fully understanding the culture of the people, the history of conflict, and what approaches to try to unravel them that became the turning point of a better relationship with the people and gaining peace and ushering development in Sarangani.

They stayed alright. Yet, “it was like the sheep in the mouth of its predator,” was how Cpl Peter U Maquiling, member of the Alpha Company which operates in the NPA-affected barangays, describes their situation during the initial phase of their assignment in Sarangani. Corporal Maquling’s squad was assigned in the remotest sitio where six residents were full-time members of the NPA while the rest were sympathizers. There were no roads, no electricity, no potable water and without the normal formal school in the said area. Most of the

residents are from the B’laan tribe who suffer from lack of basic services thus they became easy preys of the NPA’s maneuverings. Later on, with the soldiers sincere efforts, the same people who repulsed their presence became the ones who protected them from the enemy.

These soldiers who are assigned in the remotest areas, through their battalion commander and the staff, became the link between the people and the local government that later on

The 73IB’s Peace and Development Teams demonstrate the efforts of the unit on self-sufficiency and food security in conflict-affected and depressed areas.

1Lt Rio Anthony B GammadS7, 73IB

Cpl Peter A Maquiling Alfa Company, 73IB



Cpl Jonathan A Dumaguit Bravo Company, 73IB Cpl Edwin U Sumampong

Charlie Company, 73IB

Some 68 priests of the Diocese of Marbel led, by Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez, hold their clergy Joint Recollection at the 73IB “Peace Camp.”

opened all communications and eventually connected them to each other. Slowly, basic needs of the locals, whether Muslim, indigenous groups or Christians, were met. As the people gradually felt the presence of the government, the soldiers earned their trust and friendship. Two years ago, when the locals’ agricultural produce were affected by pests, the soldiers showed them how to plant alternative agricultural products, thus introduced the “Gulayan sa Kalinaw”, an ongoing project of the battalion in different barangays within the areas of its concern. For six months, the

soldiers supported the housing projects of the United Nations Development Program in conflict affected barangays. The unit also linked with numerous non-government organizations and supported their activities especially medical missions in the outlying barangays. The unit’s active fight against illegal loggers also endears them to the people.

On the security and defense of their area, the soldiers also trained able members of the community on how to protect themselves and their territory not only from NPAs but from anyone who would threaten their kalinaw.

“Culture of peace starts with the soldiers,” Cpl Edwin U Sumampong, who belongs to the 73IB’s Charlie Company, operating in the Muslim areas, claimed. As long as a soldier is at peace with himself—that he is bounded by good morals and discipline, everything else will follow, according to him. Most of the efforts in the area where Charlie Company is deployed, are focused on mediating among Muslims and tribal groups such as B’laans and T’bolis in the course of misunderstandings to prevent them from escalating into something bloody and beyond control.

This was further corroborated by Cpl Jonathan A Dumaguit, member of the Bravo Company which operates in Glan, Sarangani, who said that dedication, commitment and sacrifice are only attributes the 73IB soldiers are holding on to do their respective jobs. So far, Bravo Company in their area of operations had caused the surrender of 10 NPA members and 15 lawless elements.

Way to go

The conglomeration of efforts of the local government units, the people, and the non-government and government agencies with the support of the military in Sarangani brought forth the much elusive peace and development. Constituents of this area have realized to extend their hands to the soldiers whose efforts, big or small, are indeed beyond reproach.

Much have been said and heard about being a disciplined soldier. He had broken the walls created by the bitter past. He had made friends out of enemies. He had brought forth peace out of war. But singlehandedly he cannot make them all. It takes every Juan to make lasting peace and sustainable development possible. It takes the spirit of bayanihan for the people to carry the heavy load with ease, for it to move forward and reach its destination.



In these modern times when nations are being confronted with so many social issues,

governments are mandated to pose the question, or find out, whether their military force is accustomed to involve themselves in social and other humanitarian endeavors, aside from just being an organization of armed people defending a country’s sovereignty against aggressors. Like all other countries, the Philippines should be ready to respond in this

calling in order to make its soldiers not just mission-oriented, but first of all, PEOPLE-FOCUSED. This is one aspect that the AFP needs to inculcate in every soldier, for him to develop the capacity to let all of his actions be guided by humanitarian considerations. Thus, continuous learning and proper training is needed for all soldiers to develop the much needed social skills. And part of this learning is to examine if: Soldiers are just for combat?

In answering this kind of question, we have to consider many aspects of academic study – and Psychology is one, which is also considered a very credible discipline that could dig into the intricacies of this seemingly simple inquiry. In the Post-positive claim, people generalize the military, based on their observation as an organization of “robots” that only know how to follow orders. They think of soldiers as merely warriors who don’t think rationally. But granting that it be so, that could have

• MAJ JULIUS CABARLOC PA



been only apparent in the Philippine setting maybe in some instances during the martial law period. As time passed by, and as demonstrated by the lessons from EDSA 1, soldiers have now become more humane and more focused on winning the people’s trust and confidence, and this is a Constructivist claim that tries to portray soldiers in a different perspective. In efforts to improve every soldier’s capacity to deal with the people, government leaders, as well as the

A foot soldier should not only look for the enemy, but should also look after the welfare of the people he has sworn to protect.



AFP leadership made it their policy to include in every training, numerous subjects on how to effectively deal with the people and the community as a whole. This effort can be claimed in the Advocacy/Participatory knowledge for this political move will mean that the Filipino people will expect to see new and caring soldiers with different mindsets compared to what was stereotyped about them in the past. For the Pragmatic view, the outcome of this “shift in perspective” in the military organization will solve the issues being spread by different sectors on some alleged human rights violations,

and will demonstrate the military’s transformation from traditional thinkers to peace and development advocates. Categorizing this question into more simple terms means that we have to remove its abstractness, and think of ways on how to bring out the ideas to every personnel corollary to how he understands this kind of question. And doing this will mean a lot of research.

There are three (3) research strategies available, the Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods research strategies (Creswell, 2003). The Quantitative research strategy can

determine the percentage of soldiers who think that they were trained PURELY TO FIGHT, no other else. From the whole AFP population, it will separate the number of traditional (combat) thinkers from those exposed to non-traditional (social) endeavors. Conducting surveys can bring out results. On the other hand, the Qualitative research strategy can likewise bring out the idea of an individual soldier, or a number of soldiers, if they think that they are just for combat or they can also be effective in community/social activities as experienced in the field. Narrative



research or retelling of experiences can enlighten this question. The Mixed Methods approach is found to be more suitable for this question. The extensive research and the massive data that will be drawn out by the quantitative approach, will convey the number/fraction of traditional (combat) thinkers, as against to those who look at combat as the last resort to settle conflicts, in reference to the total military population. While the combat thinkers are being quantified, the testimonies/success stories of other soldiers who were able to directly participate in social and community development activities will likewise qualify or justify the need for

soldiers to change their mindsets and espouse non-traditional (social) roles, aside from just addressing security concerns. Experiences, when properly accounted, written and advocated or published, are good sources of lessons that can be learned, emulated, or even replicated. All in all, the quantitative data and the qualitative information from each approach can be compared, analyzed and converged, while any contradictions can be restudied and corrected prior to finalizing or implementing a study.

The main idea in this piece of writing is to let the military organization reflect

on the need for transformation among its members. While our mandate is to secure, we also have this implied responsibility to protect. And part of this “protection” duty is to look after the people’s well-being. It is true that there are government agencies looking into this, but there are still places that are so distant and risky that only our soldiers have access. A foot soldier should not only look for the enemy, but should also look after the welfare of the people he has sworn to protect. If we want to portray that soldiers are NOT ONLY for combat, then we have to research and advocate some more.



There are about 7,000,000 Filipinos working overseas today, as laborers, technicians, professionals, merchant sailors, pilots and a host of other professions spanning every aspect of life. They remit billions of dollars monthly and it is believed that were it not for these remittances the Filipino economy would have floundered years ago.

A less well known aspect of overseas employment of Filipinos was active involvement in conflicts. The Blackwater scandal illustrates this quite clearly enough. A few years ago, local newspapers broke the news that a private American security company called Blackwater was recruiting veteran Filipino military personnel as “security officers” in Iraq, Afghanistan and other troubled spots in different countries. The US Government was finding it hard to finance their military efforts in those areas and found a practical solution by “sub-contracting” some of the activities of their armed forces to private security companies. These include manning and securing communications outposts, guarding and securing fuel and supply depot and escorting convoys delivering supplies to their units. There were more than enough Filipino military personnel willing enough to retire early and get into the Blackwater bandwagon but the newspaper story cut the deal short. Some were actually recruited but shortly after the story made headlines in Manila, Blackwater kept a low profile and active recruitment dropped and probably stopped.

What is even less known is that this sort of thing was already happening for centuries with Filipinos being recruited as mercenaries fighting in foreign armies. One of the better recorded among these is the Filipino mercenary force of Vicente Macanaya who fought in China against the Taiping rebels under the American adventurist Frederick Townsend Ward.

The story began inocuously enough in 1836 when a 26-year old schoolteacher named Hong Huoxiu, took and failed the Imperial Government Chinese examinations (similar to our civil service examination). In the old Imperial China,

passing the examinations opens the door to promotions, power and, of course, fortune. Getting high grades will make accelerate this process. Of course this is easier said than done and the Imperial Examinations are extremely difficult. Failure means one is relegated to an obscure post in a distant government branch with no hope of promotion. The dejected Hong returned to his village to study for the next examinations and among the books he read was entitled Good Words for Exhorting the Age by a Chinese Protestant convert named Liang Afa. The Christian book told of a strange Supreme God of Heaven and how his worship could bring heavenly peace called Taiping (where the subsequent rebellion got its name). Hong was intrigued especially since the book contrasted so sharply with the realities in 19th century Imperial China.

Hong took and failed the examinations again. This time, his depression was so great that he slipped into a coma. When he regained consciousness, he claimed that while unconscious, he was taken to heaven and that the God of the Christians told him he was the younger brother of Jesus and hence, God’s Second Son. Thus, he would no longer be Hong Huoxiu but Hong Xiuquon which means Hong “The Complete Fire.” Thereupon he went from village to village preaching this strange gospel and converted thousands to his new religion that included pirates, thieves, bandits and members of anti-government secret societies. Soon enough the Imperial Chinese government began to crack down on this group and Hong responded by organizing his church into an army with four men and their families commanded by a corporal, every four corporals headed by a sergeant, four sergeants led by a lieutenant, four lieutenants under a captain and so forth until the rank of general whose command reach over 13,000 men. The top commanders were called Wangs (“kings”) with Hong himself referred to as Tien Wang (“Heavenly King”).

Hong was victorious because he imposed strict discipline among his followers including bans on sex, alcohol, drugs, gambling and other activities.

O.F.W.–Overseas Filipino WarriorsExecution is by beheading yet Hong himself has several mistresses and indulged in alcohol and drugs. Just the same Hong developed competent commanders such as Li Xiucheng, also known as Chung Wang (“Faithful King”). Taiping victories were followed by massacres in accordance with ancient Chinese practices although the Taipings carried this to new heights of cruelty. By the time the rebellion was put down, over 20 million Chinese would have died, the bloodiest period in Chinese history between Ghengis Khan and the civil war of the 1920s to 1948 (including China’s role in World War 2). With the Imperial Government embroiled with England and France in the Opium Wars, the Taipings were able to overrun large tracts of China itself.

By 1860, even large heavily fortified cities like Shanghai were threatened by the Taipings. In desperation, its mayor Wu Hsu turned to a “barbarian” (in China, then and now, foreigners are referred to as “barbarians”), an American named Frederick Townsend Ward, an experienced seaman who preferred the life of an adventurer and mercenary and who served under another adventurer named William Walker, conqueror of Nicaragua. He later fought with the French Army in Crimea against the Russians. In those days such men were called “filibusters” from the Spanish word “filibusturero,” or “freebooters.” This word should be familiar to us Filipinos. At that time he was an officer in the Shanghai Pirate Suppression Bureau, which was organized by Wu to combat pirates who transferred to

• COL EMMANUEL C MARTIN (FA) GSC PA

“Asians and Africans and other non-Caucasians can fight as well as whites, a fact that was established at the battle of Wu Sung, a battle that was planned by Ward and won for him by the Filipinos whom he so respected.”



his city when they were driven out by the British from Hong Kong.

Ward told Wu and the governor of Kiangsu province, Hsueh Huan, that he can beat the Taipings if given enough men and resources. He will recruit an army of mercenaries who will be paid US$50 a month for the enlisted ranks, US$200 for his officers and US$500 for Ward himself plus bounties for each city liberated and all the gold, gems and other riches that his men can loot from these cities. Despite the projected expenses, both Wu and Hsueh agreed and soon Ward recruited a force of 100 American, Dane, French, English, Prussian and Swiss mercenaries and armed them with modern weapons such as the Sharp breech-loading rifles, Colt Model 1851 and the like. His second in comamnd was another American Henry Burgevine from South Carolina. In its first battle, the “Ward Corps” led a successful counter-attack that defeated the Taipings and Wu was so delighted that he ordered Ward to recapture Sung-chiang. Although he had no artillery, Ward tried surprise but his men were overconfident and were “too noisy” such that the Taipings blasted them with heavy firepower. Ward disbanded his first army and paid off the survivors and began recruiting another one.

This time he scoured the Filipino community in Shanghai. The Filipinos were called “Manilamen” and they were considered as prized recruits by Ship Captains. They were intelligent, hardworking, brave and dependable. Moreover, they speak Spanish, a language in which Ward is fluent. He initially recruited 80 “Manilamen” including 23-year-old Vicente Macanaya. The good pay offered by Ward soon resulted to another 100 Filipinos to sign up. Ward also bought artillery and recruited more western mercenaries, chiefly British to train the Filipinos in manning the artillery and the other more sophisticated equipment in his arsenal. In his second attack on Sung-chiang, he led 200 Filipinos in a surprise attack and routed the city’s 1,000 Taiping defenders despite receiving no help from the Imperial Army stationed nearby. Here, Ward received the first of his 15 wounds in the campaigns that followed.

In their next attack against the city of Ch’ing-p’u, the mercenaries were blasted off the walls by massed Taiping artillery and Ward was severely wounded. The fighting retreat was led by Macanaya. It

was some months before Ward returned from treatment in Paris. When he returned, the British, who believed that his actions were detrimental to their policies in China, arrested him and imprisoned him on one of their vessels but he was rescued by Macanaya and together they built up a third army.

The loyalty and fighting prowess of the Filipinos, who had no previous military experience and yet learned quickly and evolved into first class soldiers, so impressed Ward that he no longer believed that Asians cannot be trained to fight effectively in the western way and recommended that he also recruit Chinese for his new army. Wu was delighted and soon the Ward Corps grew to 7,000 men including large numbers of Chinese, trained and led by western and the now experienced Filipino mercenaries, along with a small naval force of armored river boats. He also retained a personal bodyguard of 200 Filipinos under Macanaya. This time also he got the cooperation of regular British and French troops who no longer viewed him with suspicion and now saw him as an ally against the violent Taipings, who also upgraded the capabilities of their army with more modern firepower and western mercenaries to train and lead them.

In their next battle the Ward Corps drove out the Taipings in Wu Sung, which the Taipings occupied as part of their plan to surround Shanghai. A week later, Ward led 500 men and routed another Taiping force of 20,000 in Kwang-fu-lin and the Ward Corps was granted the Imperial Title of “Ever Victorious Army” with his promotion to higher grades of Mandarin and the material rewards that go with it. Ward married Wu’s daughter and eventually became a Chinese citizen. He again defeated the Taipings in Sung-chiang despite being surrounded there by 50,000 Taipings and again drove the Taipings from Ch-ing-p’u. Despite his victories, the Imperial Chinese government cannot bring itself to completely trust this American turned-Chinese citizen while the other Europeans were apprenhensive that Ward was teaching the Chinese how to fight in the western manner the same way he taught the Filipinos. There was a sigh of relief among these parties when Ward received his 15th, and fatal wound on September 20, 1862, outside Ningpo, Chekiang Province. He was not yet even 31.

Ward’s veterans wanted the Filipino Vicente Macanaya to succeed Ward but the Chinese Imperial Government could not believe that a Filipino can command western mercenaries as well as Chinese troops so they appointed Burgevine as Commander but he quickly fell out of favor when he tried to rob Wu. He was succeeded by the British John Holland who was so incompetent that the Ward Corps was virtually destroyed a short time after he took over. Command went to another British named General Charles George “Chinese” Gordon who was competent enough but was not as inspiring or charismatic as Ward. In any event, the defeats inflicted by Ward on the Taipings so weakened them that they were on the decline anyway and Gordon simply finished them off. Some historians later erred in attributing to him the victories won by Ward and even credited him with putting down the Taiping Rebellion. However, in China, a temple was built in Ward’s honor and he was elevated to the level of a Confucian demi-god and revered for teaching them the new ways of war that enabled the Chinese to gain enough military capabilities to avoid being carved up by the western powers.

In training and leading Filipinos to battle and seeing them evolve to world-class soldiers, Ward realized that race is not a factor in molding men into first rate combatants. His victory in Wu-sung showed that non-Caucasians can fight as well as Caucasians. The lessons gleaned from this and his other victories were soon taken to heart by the Japanese who later defeated the Russians in Tsushima, as well as by the Germans under General von Lettow Vorbeck who trained and led the black East Africans against the vastly superior British Empire forces which failed to defeat him in four years of bitter conflict from 1914 to 1918. Only the end of World War 1 with Germany’s defeat forced Von Lettow Vorbeck to surrender to the British. He later recalled that “… an army that had not been defeated surrendered to an army that had never won …”

These and later campaigns proved that Asians and Africans and other non-Caucasians can fight as well as whites, a fact that was established at the battle of Wu Sung, a battle that was planned by Ward and won for him by the Filipinos whom he so respected.



FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City----MILITIAMAN Noel Dela Cerna cheated death when bullets rained down on him and Staff Sergeant Montano Escano and fellow militia man Enrique Sicad in an ambush.

But the almost fateful clash and the bullet it left on his butt led him to the love of his life.

That day, Dela Cerna and Sicad were unarmed because of the election gun ban but they responded to reports of presence of rebels in a village.

The two were members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU), the country’s paramilitary group.

Escano, their commander, was better prepared because he risked bringing his handgun despite the ban.

Leave no man behind

Under Escano’s order and amid exploding rifle grenades and rapid gunfires, Dela Cerna rushed to a tree to seek cover.

Bullets ripped the shrubs beside him every time he would bob his head to sense their attackers. Then he saw Sicad on the ground, squirming in pain.

Outnumbered, they survived the ordeal with injuries but lost Sicad.

Sworn Duty

Arriving at a government hospital in Legazpi City later in the evening, Dela Cerna was greeted by physician Marissa Reyes who evidently felt sorry for the wounded soldiers.

“Bakit kasi kayo nagpapatama at bakit dyan pa sa pwet?” she said. “Why did you fight with those rebels? During

encounters, you should just run and hide,” Reyes added with a wide grin.

As if adding insult to the injury, the physician continued with her flurry of unwanted comments.

“What will you do with your medals for heroism if you end up dead?” she asked.

By that time, Dela Cerna was hurt. He felt the need to defend the soldiers’ especially Sicad’s plight.

“Ma’am, we have performed our sworn duty to protect our country, so please do your own duty which is to treat patients like me,” Dela Cerna quipped.

Reyes was caught off-guard by the straightforward reply.

“Well, my father is a police colonel,” she replied, as if threatening Dela Serna.

“Dr. Reyes, I am a proud CAFGU member and my father is a farmer who plows the fields,” he replied.

That argument became the start of the blossoming of a romance, however.

Brave soldier

That same night, Reyes returned along with two nurses. “We will take blood samples from you,” the nurse told Dela Serna.

Though in pain, he rose to his feet and tried walking around. He knew Dr. Reyes was keeping an eye on him, smiling with an amazed look on her face.

Passing near Reyes, he saw a different expression on her face. “Kaw ha, nag-papa-cute ka sa mga nurses,” she said who seemed to be jealous.

Since then, he suspected that the lady doctor was attracted to him.

Soldiers are ‘womanizers’

The next morning, Reyes together with nurses came to visit the ward, which accommodated 10 patients at that time.

She normally would require patients to sit on their bed during routine visits.

Seeing that he was lying on his stomach, she asked, “Why don’t you sit like the others? That is our policy here in this hospital during the doctor’s rounds.”

“Please understand my situation Dr. Reyes, I have a bullet wound in my butt,” he pleaded with a smile, sensing that the physician was just making a prank.

Later in the day, Dr. Reyes came back to see him. He was surprised that she cleaned his butt wound herself. As the lovely doctor worked on his injury, they shared some funny stories.

When he asked for her cell phone number, she looked excited but she hesitated. “Soldiers are known womanizers. I don’t believe that you’re still single, show me your ID,” she joked.

Using his charm, he finally convinced her to give in. Before she left the ward, she told him, “Honestly, I really think I have met you in the past.”

Still nursing from his previous heartache, he found some relief in her presence. It was only about two years back that he lost his wife, a school teacher, in a freak vehicular accident.

He saw the sparkle in the eyes of his attending physician. When

Butt wound becomes soldier’s lucky, love charm

• MAJ HAROLD M CABUNOC PA



she was out of sight, he sensed an unexplainable pain in his heart.

However, he was unsure about his feelings. He kept it to himself until the time that he was transferred to the AFP Medical Center (AFPMC) in Quezon City.

He could not find her when a military ambulance unexpectedly came to pick him up. He texted her and she rushed to his location. The last thing he saw was her lonely face when the ambulance departed from the hospital premises.

Doctor Love

After the military physicians removed the bullet from his butt, he was told to stay in V.Luna hospital (AFPMC) to recuperate for the next two months.

Life would have been boring if not for the daily greetings in his cell phone from Reyes about 500 kilometers away in Legaspi City.

They shared some jokes, anecdotes, and personal experiences on a daily basis. Somehow, she had started to ‘cure’ his bleeding heart.

Some days, they would also quarrel especially if he fails to answer the phone immediately.

Escano, who shared a bedroom

with him at the AFPMC’s heroes ward, became his confidante.

“Don’t play games with her, she comes from a respectable family,” warned Escano.

Then he learned that Dr. Reyes has a sister, Alma, who is an officer of the Philippine Navy.

She has a police senior superintendent for a father and a naval officer for a sister. For obvious reasons, he could not possibly mess with the lady.

He heeded the advice of Escano, whom he saw as his guardian angel especially after saving his life in the encounter.

“If you are serious about courting her, propose to her personally when you are back in Albay,” Escano told him, a brotherly advice that he respected.

Braving the Odds

Disembarking from the bus that carried him back to Legazpi City, his first destination was the hospital where his love interest was working.

“I came here to personally tell you that I love you with all my heart,” he told Reyes, whose tears welled as they embraced.

Their love blossomed and they became almost inseparable. When he is not able to come to Legazpi City, Reyes would travel to his detachment to visit him.

He introduced her to the life of a militiaman. “I love my profession in the same way that I love you,” he told her.

Though he had won her heart, he failed to get the nod of her father. He did not approve of their budding relationship and refused to talk to him.

He was lucky that he got the ‘naval support’ of Reyes’ sister who asked him to marry the physician if he truly loves her.

He felt even more fortunate that her “Baby,” as he fondly calls Dr Reyes, unwaveringly fought for their love.

Lucky bullet

He felt sorry for the death of his buddy and the rebel who tried to kill them but the bullet which hit his buttocks that day turned out to be his greatest luck.

He has kept it as a memento of his second chance at life. Somehow, it became his lucky charm.

Despite the disapproval of Marissa’s father, they were married before Judge Alben Rabe in Ligao City on August 24, 2010, about six months after they first met.

He was so happy that Marissa did not falter even though her father had expressed disappointment over the wedding.

Once, someone asked Marissa what made her love him most.

“He has the cutest butt which I happened to see and care for due to that ‘lucky’ bullet,” she explained. Boisterous laughter filled the room.

“I will love Marissa till bullets do us part,” Dela Serna replied in jest.

CAA Noel dela Cerna with his wife, Dr Marissa Reyes-Cerna with their new born child



INTRODUCTION

Amid the challenges brought by the unfolding events of history, Philippine Army undeniably remains to be a professional organization that comprised the best men and women in the country. It has survived all the undertakings and transitions because of its valiant and dedicated soldiers that have shown their gallantry in many battles against threat to the nation’s democracy and sovereignty. These soldiers are more than willing to risk their lives and protect the country whatever it may cost. Over the years, Philippine Army continues to be an institution that upholds the people’s aspiration of genuine peace and progress that can truly be a source of national pride.

Moreover, the Army stands unshaken in spite being in the midst of controversies that threaten its stability. Through the recent implementation of Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR), PA is incessantly working in a single direction towards good governance and performance excellence, thus, making Team Army more responsive, more capable, more dynamic and more committed to its mandate of serving the people and securing the land.

Nevertheless, PA continuously motivates every personnel through efficient management especially in seriously providing all the necessities

and benefits of all men in the service. Because of these, thousands of young Filipinos every year are ignited to take their turn to carry on the proud legacy of military traditions. To date, influx of applicants nationwide is aspiring to be a part of this noble profession of arms with high integrity, undisputed honour and remarkable valor.

CONSTITUTIONAL MANDATE

Among the earlier provisions of the National Defense Act, some of which were later amended, the 1987 Constitution retained and enshrined the provision that the “officers and men of the armed forces shall be recruited from all p r o v i n c e s and cities, as far as practicable” (Article XVI, Section 5, P a r a g r a p h 6).

Recruitment in the Philippine Army traces its roots in the revolutionary army organized by the Katipuneros in 1897. It can be deduced then that its first members were raised from among the eight provinces which initially took up arms to fight for independence from Spain. After a brief interlude, the Americans came and established the convention for raising a national defense force. Commonwealth Act Number 1 enacted in 1935, provided the basis for nationwide recruitment as the country was divided into military



districts encompassing the various provinces.

Post war army organizations evolved from the foundation established in the National Defense Act of 1935. As such, mobilization of the national manpower proceeded at once such that at the break of World War II, Filipino troops ably defended strong points in Luzon particularly Bataan and Corregidor. Recruitment of resistance forces against Japanese invaders was also demonstrated in the Visayas notably in the islands of Panay, Negros and Leyte. Today, the Philippine Army, as a Major Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, consistently provides the necessary forces following the directives set by national leadership. The Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) is an illustration of the sincere advocacy to professionalize the organization by filling up the rank and file with the best and the brightest from among the applicants right at the very first stage of the Human Resource Management cycle. Integral to this thrust of transforming towards an envisioned “World-class Army that is a source of national pride” is the recruitment of best applicants to enhance organizational competence and operational excellence.

ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES

In line with the recent directions set under Philippine Defense Reform (PDR) which is the foundation of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR), it is imperative to change the existing threat-based and operations-driven recruitment system to one that will make practicable the constitutional mandate of the AFP. The transition to a more appropriate structure with the capability and competency to attract, recruit and select potential applicants in an accessible, accountable and sustainable manner is a must in order to adapt with the fast changing environment of the recruitment market.

The expansion of APMC’s Procurement and Attrition Branch into a Recruitment, Selection and Attrition Group (RSAG) is one of the changes that will make recruitment and selection of applicants more extensive in scope. With this Group, regional recruitment was made possible through the Army Recruitment Offices (AROs) which were expanded to include Recruitment Stations covering a region or a cluster of regions. (e.g. coverage corresponding to areas of unified commands and major army units). In this manner, APMC can widen the scope of attracting officer candidates and

candidate soldiers nationwide. Such restructuring also implies the revision of the giving of quota allocation at the point of completion of pre-entry course rather than initially sub-allocating quota for recruitment directly to major subordinate units. The idea is to enable the PA to recruit its members at large and retain its flexibility to deploy troops.

The main justification for the organizational change can always be referred to the constitutional mandate cited earlier. With recruitment stations operating in 16 regional centers, the objective of recruiting from all provinces and cities can be made practicable with dedicated and trained personnel who will be doing the legwork.

RECRUITMENT STRATEGY

For “many are called but few are chosen,” Matthew 20:16. Following the policy of selecting the best recruits for the Army will continue the glorious heritage of exceptional military personnel in the service.

Presently, in order to recruit only the best and the brightest among applicants, as mandated by the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR), the Philippine Army, through Army Personnel Management Center (APMC), will conduct a nationwide recruitment of qualified applicants to

fill up the quota of officers and enlisted personnel for Calendar Years (CY) 2012 and 2013. The procurement of officers for CY 2012 is a whole year round activity, which includes 60 candidate officers for each two classes of Officer Preparatory Course, one class of Officer Candidate Course and 1,400 candidate soldiers that will be distributed to major subordinate units.

The gargantuan task of recruiting qualified applicants to fill up the above mentioned quota lies with the regional recruitment offices which need to compete with other agencies in the open market. As such, understanding



the recruitment environment and market is a must to improve the skills of our personnel so that they can be at par with other human resource managers who are aspiring for the same resource in the open market.

With this, the Army Recruitment Offices (AROs) of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will undertake massive information drive and dissemination campaigns in the first and second quarters of the year to ensure that prospective applicants in the countryside, even in the remote areas are covered. Pre-entry exams and administration of Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery (PAATB) will be done in the third and fourth quarter of the year. Although indulged in its recruitment efforts, Recruitment Officers will still administer pre-entry examinations to walk in applicants in order to maximize its presence and widen the pool of qualified candidates. Likewise, the recruitment offices will prepare officer applicants who passed the pre-entry exams for interview to

be undertaken by the Philippine Army Officer Selection Board (PAOSB). Applicants who surpassed the PAOSB interview will undergo Physical and Medical Examination (PME) including the Physical Fitness Test (PFT). Those who were proven to be physically and mentally fit will face the Final Deliberation Board before oath taking and training.

Interested applicants may inquire online through www.army.mil.ph or visit the nearest ARO at Fort Bonifacio Taguig City, Camp Lapulapu Cebu City and Camp Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro City. Inquiries regarding applications can also be coursed through the Recruitment Stations and Mobile Recruitment Teams located in the City hubs or at any military camp located nationwide.

ENTRY OPTIONS

Applicants have three options in joining the noble service of Philippine Army, as mandated in “Decentralization of Officer Procurement to the Major Services” AFP Personnel Directive Nr.1

dated Dec. 23, 2003 officer aspirants depending on its qualifications may apply either in the Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) and Officer Candidate Course (OCC) while under “Selective Enlistment/Reenlistment” GHQ Circular Nr 13 dated July 15, 1991 those who are aspiring to be an Enlisted Personnel may apply in the Candidate Soldier Course(CSC).

According to “Implementing Guidelines in the Screening and Selection of Applicants for OCC and CAD for Reserve Officers” HPA Letter Directives dated 30 March 2010, applicants for OCC must have a baccalaureate degree, 21 to 24 years old on start of training, at least 5 feet in height both male and female, physically and mentally fit, single without child and had no pending case in any court. Whereas applicants for OPC must have been commissioned in the Reserve Forces as 2nd Lieutenant, at least 5 feet in height both male and female, physically and mentally fit, not more than 31 years old on date of



Call-to-Active Duty and had no pending case in any court. On the other hand, “Age Rationalization and Attrition Plan for Enlisted Personnel of the AFP” DND Dep’t Order Nr 31 dated Nov. 22, 2006 stated that Candidate Soldier applicants must have at least 72 units in college, posses certified skills needed in the military service for high school graduate, at least 5 feet both male and female, physically and mentally fit, 18 to 26 years old on the start of training and had no pending case in any court.

Qualified applicants for OCC will undergo one full year of rigorous training in soldiery and leadership, upon completion, officer candidate will be commissioned by the President as Second Lieutenant while OPC aspirants will face the challenges of a six months special course of continuing education leadership and ground warfare tactics prior to active duty deployment.

WHAT CAN THE ARMY OFFER?

The valiant service of all candidate soldiers, officer candidates and commissioned officers are equitably compensated. Officer Candidates’ monthly gross is P 27, 506.00 and P 29, 867.00 for commissioned Second Lieutenant while candidate soldiers’ stipend is P12, 538.00 and P18, 050.00 for enlisted Private. The said amounts will still increase when the last tranche of increase in pay and allowances will be implemented on the second semester of this year.

Aside from monetary allowances, Philippine Army offers non-monetary benefits such as job security to all personnel and readily non-wage benefits is available to every soldiers such as opportunities for Post Graduate Studies both local and abroad, Insurance and Family Health Benefits,

Billeting and Housing Privileges, leadership and other skills training, Career Advancement and above all an honourable privilege to lead the Army.

A CHALLENGE

Joining the army is choosing a stable and challenging career. It is a noble and selfless act of service; an avenue to showcase the valor, integrity and professionalism in fulfilling the sacred duty to God, country and people.

Take up the challenge, be one of the exemplary Filipinos who have sought to honor their call of duty in upholding peace, bringing progress to communities and empowering people as shareholders in the quest towards nation building. Now is your turn to lead. Live the life of a leader. Join the Army!



The in-house production of ID Cards

for PA personnel, Civilian Employees, Dependents and Reservists had already started on 01 February 2012 at the Office of the Army Adjutant. This is free of charge to all active PA personnel and Civilian Employees while P45.00 is collected for Dependents and Reservists. In case the ID is lost/damaged, the amount of P90.00 will be charged to the applicant. The same amount will be charged to an applicant whose printed ID have erroneous entries as a result of his/her failure to update or correct the data in his/her SOI and/or application form.

Procedure in ID Application

a. When applying for an identification card, applicant must ensure that all pertinent information required in the Personnel Information System (PIS) database must be complete and updated. This involves the submission of all orders to the Information and Management Branch, Office of the Army Adjutant/ PDS at PA Major Units such as: CAD/ETAD (for officers); Enlistment/Re-enlistment; Promotion Assignment, Change of Civil Status, Amendment Orders, Marriage Contract issued by National Statistics Office, Birth Certificate issued by National Statistic Office, Birth Certificate of Children issued by the National Statistics Office and whatever is practicable. Subsequently, this will be forwarded to the Record

Branch of the Office of Army Adjutant for inclusion in the Military Personnel File.

b. When renewing an identification card, the old/expired ID card must be surrendered for references purposes and to preempt proliferation of unauthorized PA ID Cards. In case of loss, submit a duly notarized affidavit of loss. Surrendered ID will be disposed of accordingly.

c. Personnel to be issued an ID card must accomplish the ID card information data sheet/application form duly endorsed by C,IMB, OAA or C, PDS of PA Major Units which will be submitted to the Office of the Army Adjutant .

d. Filled out application form by the reservists shall be endorsed by the Reservist Management Information System Office, ARESCOM (RMISO) and to be submitted to OG9, PA for final authentication and submission to

OAA for processing and issuance of reservist ID.

e. The Chief, Information Management Branch of the Office of the Army Adjutant G e n e r a l / C h i e f , Personnel Data Section of the different Major Units will certify the completeness of concerned personnel’s data in the PIS database before processing

the said application at the ID Section of Office of the Army Adjutant.

f. After ensuring the completeness of data in the PIS, C,IMB will issue and authenticate the updated Summary of Information (SOI) of the concerned applicant. It is the responsibility of the concerned personnel to check all his data in the SOI before he/she will sign it to ensure the correctness of his/her data prior to processing at ID section.

g. After the processing of the application for ID card, concerned individual will proceed to the cashier and Collection Branch of Finance Center, Philippine Army for payment if necessary.

h. The capturing of biometrics, signature specimen and picture taking followed by card printing and subsequent issuance of ID Card at the releasing area of the Office of the Army Adjutant completes the ID processing.

i. For non-appearance applicant, application form must have photo, signature and thumb mark for scanning, provided that all data in the SOI are complete and accurate.

PHILIPPINE ARMY• MAJOR ROBERTO V DELA CRUZ

Administrative Officer, OAA, PA

NewID System



Career Quota Training Venue Report

Date

Start

DateOffrs EP Rsvst

Offrs-Advanced

Inf Offr Adv Crse 30 2 3ATG, TRADOC, PA Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City, 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Mil Intel Offr Adc Crse 20 TIS, ISG, PA

Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Offrs-Basic

Inf Offr Bsc Crse 30 2 CAS, TRADOC, PA

Ft. Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Inf Offr Bsc Crse 40 4ATG, TRADOC, PA

Cp Bahian, Malaybalay, Bukidnon

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Inf Offr Bsc Crse 55 CAS/OCS, TRADOC, PA Cp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac

04 May 12 14 May 12

Inf Offr Bsc Crse 55 -do- 04 May 12 14 May 12

FA Offr Bsc Crse 20 2 CAS, TRADOC, PA

Ft Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Signal Offr Bsc Crse 20 2 CSS, TRADOC, PA

Cp Tinio, Cabanatuan City

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

EP-Advanced

Inf NCO Adv Crse 30 2 CAS, TRADOC, PA


04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

FA NCO Adv Crse 30 2 -do- 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Inf NCO Adv Crse 40 MTTCAS/9DTU

Kuta Angeles, Pili, Camarines, Sur

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Ord NCO Adv Crse 30 2 CSSS, TRADOC, PA

Cp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

QM NCO Adv Crse 30 2 -do- 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

FS NCO Adv Crse 30 2 -do- 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

AGS NCO Adv Crse 30 2 -do- 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Armor NCO Adv Crse 40 2 TAS, TRADOC, PA

Cp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Engr NCO Adv Crse 36 MTT CSS/BTU, 52Ebde, PA

Cp Natividad, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

Inf NCO Adv Crse 40 2 1ATG, TRADOC, PA

Cp Enrile, Malagutay, ZC

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12


Cp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12


Cp Evangelista, CDOC

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12


Cp MFDC, Echague, Isabela

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12


Cp Siongco, Awang, DM

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

FA NCO Adv Crse 40 2 -do- 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

QM NCO Adv Crse 40 2 04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

SERVICE SCHOOL COURSES FOR 2nd QUARTER CY 2012



Mil Intel NCO Adv Crse 40 TIS, ISG, PA

Ft Bonifacio, Metro Manila

04 Jun 12 11 Jun 12

EP-Basic

FA NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 CAS, TRADOC, PA


Inf NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 -do-

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 MTTCAS/9DTU, 9ID, PA Kuta Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur

Armor NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 TAS, TRADOC, PA Cp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac

AGS NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 CSSS, TRADOC, PA Cp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac

Ord NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 -do-

QM NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 -do-

FS NCO Bsc Crse 30 2 -do-

Bsc NCO Bsc Crse 30 -do-

Engr NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 CSS, TRADOC, PA Cp Tinio, Cabanatuan City

Signal NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 -do-

Engr NCO Bsc Crse 67 MTT CSS/BTU, 52EBde, PA Cp Natividad, Manolo Fortich Bukidnon

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 1ATG, TRADOC, PA CP Enrile, Malagutay, ZC

Signal NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 -do-

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 3ATG, TRADOC, PA Cp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 4ATG, TRADOC, PA Cp Evangelista, CDOC

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 5ATG, TRADOC, PA Cp MFDC, Echague Isabela

Inf NCO Bsc Crse 50 2 6ATG, TRADOC, PA Cp Siongco, Awang, DM

Armor NCO Bsc Crse 50 MTTTAS/6ATG, TRADOC, PA Cp Siongco, Awang, DM

Civ Pers Bsc Sup Crse 30CE MTT CSSS/PACEA Ft Bonifacio, Metro Manila

SPLZN Offrs EP Civ Rsvst Training Venue Report Date Start Date

Armament Maint & Repair Crse 30 CSS, TRADOC, PA Cp O’Donnell, Capas Tarlac

Expl Ord Displ Crse 10 20 -do-

Drill Master Crse ctw ITC Crse 30 1 NCOA, TRADOC, PA Cp O’Donnel

Counter Terrorism Operations Crse 10 20 TIS, ISG, PA Ft. Bonifacio, Metro Manila

Intel Research Analysis Crse 5 15 -do-

Signal Intel Operations Crse 5 15 -do-

VIP Protective Scty Crse 10 30 -do-

Geospatial Intel Sys Crse 5 20 -do-

Info Spt Affairs Crse 10 25 1 2 CMOS, CMOG, PA Ft. Bonifacio, Metro Manila

Civil Affairs Crse 10 25 1 2 -do-

Public Affairs 10 25 1 2 -do-

Scout Ranger Crse 20 120 SRTS, FSRR, SOCOM, PA Cp Tecson, Sn Miguel, Bulacan

Sct Sniper Crse 5 20 -do-

Spl Forces Opns Crse 10 100 SFS. SFR (A), SOCOM, PA Ft. Magsaysay

Mil Scuba Diving Crse 5 25 -do-

Hardware Maint Crse 5 28 2 TSS, ASR, Ft Bonifacio Metro Manila

Online Info System Crse 5 28 2 -do-

Web Dev’t Crse 10 23 2 -do-



Course Country Rank Requirements

Duration Slot

1 Law of Peace Operations Australia CPT-COL May 2012 12 Jungle Operation Course Serial

2/2012Malaysia 2LT-1LT 01 Jun – 13 July 2012 2

3 Information technology Specialist Course

USA SSg – Tsg 04 Jun – 07 Sep 2012 1

4 Intel Captains Career Course USA 1LT – CPT 04 Jun – 15 Nov 2012 15 Engineer Captains Career Course USA 1LT – CPT 07 Jun -07 Dec 2012 16 Drill Sergeant Course USA Sgt-SSg 14 Jun – 23 Aug 2012 17 Combined Strategic Intel Training

ProgramUSA CPT- MAJ 05 Jul – 24 Aug 2012 1

8 Military Instructor Course USA 1LT 05 Jul – 24 Aug 2012 19 DISAM International Training Course USA SSg-MSg 16 July – 02 Aug 2012 1

10 Aviation Safety Officer AUSTRALIA 1LT-MAJ 04-24 Aug 2012 111 Military Police Investigator Course USA 1LT 06 Aug – 09 Oct 2012 112 Regiments Quarter Master 3/2012 MALAYSIA Sgt-Ssg 27 Aug – 28 Sep 2012 113 Overseas Joint Warfare Course AUSTRALIA MAJ-LTC 01-21 Sept 2012 114 Staff and Tactics Grade 2/2012 MALAYSIA 1LT-CPT 03 Sept – 07 Dec 2012 115 Company Commander Serial 1/2012 MALAYSIA CPT-MAJ 10 Sep – 21 Dec 2012 116 Public Affairs Course for International USA CPT-MAJ 26 Sep – 06 Nov 2012 117 Civil Military Interaction Seminar AUSTRALIA COL-BGEN Nov 12 (to be

confirmed)1

18 Australian Command and Staff Course (ACSC)

AUSTRALIA MAJ-LTC 05 Nov 12 – 12 Dec 2013

1

19 Chemical & Biological Defense Serial 2/2012

MALAYSIA Cpl-Sgt 26 Nov – 07 Dec 2012 1

20 Malaysian Armed Forces Defence College Serial 13/2013

MALAYSIA LTC-COL 07 Jan 13 – Jan 2014 1

21 Capability & Technology Management Program

AUSTRALIA MAJ 14 Jan 13 – 06 Dec 2013 1

22 Defence and Strategic Studies Course AUSTRALIA COL 14 Jan – 14 Dec 2013 123 Maritime Air Surveillance Course AUSTRALIA MAJ-LTC 30 Mar – 19 April 2013 124 Governance & Financial Management

SeminarAUSTRALIA MAJ-LTC May – June 2013 1

25 Maritime Operations Law AUSTRALIA LTC-COL To be Confirmed 126 General Scholarship Program 2012 AUSTRALIA MAJ Jan – Dec 2013 4

FOREIGN COURSES



COMBAT UNITS

UnitBest Brigade/

Best BnCommander

1ID, PA 102nd Infantry Brigade COL GERARDO F BARRIENTOS JR INF (GSC) PA 10th Infantry Battalion LTC TAHARUDIN P AMPATUAN INF (GSC) PA

2ID, PA 201st Infantry Brigade COL EDUARDO M AÑO INF (GSC) PA 74th Infantry Battalion LTC DENNIS C PEREZ INF (GSC) PA

3ID, PA 303rd Infantry Brigade COL OSCAR T LACTAO INF (GSC) PA 79th Infantry Battalion LTC MARION R SISON INF (GSC) PA

4ID, PA403rd Infantry Brigade COL ROMEO L GAPUZ INF (GSC) PA 8th Infantry Battalion LTC JOSE MARIA R CUERPO II INF (GSC) PA

5ID, PA 503rd Infantry Brigade COL ELISEO C POSADAS INF (GSC) PA 41st Infantry Battalion LTC NOEL T BALUYAN INF (GSC) PA

6ID, PA 602nd Infantry Brigade COL CESAR DIONISIO T SEDILLO INF (GSC) PA 6th Infantry Battalion LTC JOSE B GONGONA JR INF (GSC) PA

7ID, PA 702nd Infantry Brigade COL FELICITO VIRGILIO M TRINIDAD JR INF (GSC) PA3rd Infantry Battalion LTC ROGELIO R MESIAS INF (GSC) PA

8ID, PA 803rd Infantry Brigade COL OSCAR P LOPEZ INF (GSC) PA 19th Infantry Battalion LTC FRANCIS B CABUGON INF (GSC) PA

9ID, PA 903rd Infantry Brigade COL FELIX J CASTRO JR INF (GSC) PA 9th Infantry Battalion LTC JULIAN C PACATAN JR INF (GSC) PA

Annual Result of Performance Evaluation of Field Units(Best-Best) for CY 2011



LAD 1st Light Armor Bn LTC KEYMEN U EDAO CAV (GSC) PA 2nd Mech Infantry Bn LTC SIDNEY Y ATEGA CAV (GSC) PA

SOCOM

2nd SR Battalion, FSRR LTC KIRAM-AZGAR A GRAJO INF (GSC) PA

1st SF Battalion, SFR(A) LTC MONICO E ABANG INF (GSC) PA

COMBAT SUPPORT UNITS

UnitBest Battalion/

Equivalent UnitCommander

FA Bn 10th Field Artillery Battalion LTC JOSE VALENTIN Y PANADERO FA (GSC) PA

Signal Bn Command Signal Battalion, ASR LTC ARNIEL P MARIANO SC (GSC) PA

Engr Bn Engineer Support Battlion,53EBde LTC EDWIN I URETA CE (GSC) PA

MI Bn 4th Military Intelligence Battalion LTC FRANCIS P CARANDANG INF PA

COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT UNITS

Unit Best Unit Commander

FSSU 9th Forward Service Support Unit LTC FLORANTE P SISON OS (GSC) PA

FSU 3rd Finance Service Unit LTC FELIMON P MASA JR FS (GSC) PA

ATG, TRADOC

5th Army Training Group COL FERNANDO B FELIX INF (GSC) PA

School, TRADOC Combat Arms School COL RHODERICK M PARAYNO INF (GSC) PA



“The most direct way to experience a fuller life is to serve others. Had I dropped that line a few years back, it could have sounded very much a cliché. What is more, to have pitched that axiom into reality - with people in uniform - was almost beyond belief. Yet, I went through the door widely opened for me. And things were never like before. My life will never be the same again.”

Early Exposure

While growing up, I was taught to reach out. Surrounded closely by those whose love for others stretched more than the love for self, it was a common practice to set goods during the Christmas holidays and hand them over to kids who did not have much toys, clothes, and food as I had. I remember giving away coloring books which come in volumes, dolls with those big blue eyes and rainbow-colored dresses, Barbies whose hair I cut short from playing salon, shoes worn only twice or thrice because it wasn’t like those with the Mickey Mouse print like my cousin’s. Doing the packing was something I loved. To me, it was sheer fun. Not to mention Mum’s consolation that she was getting me better stuff in replacement of those, I was filled with childish exuberance.

I could pretty much tell that those

kids who were new friends to my dolls and animal toys were ecstatic. Their faces beamed with laughter and spoke so much of gratitude enough to make me understand regardless of the language gap. Despite that, as time flew by it became more of an annual obligation and crowd control for my toy roomates. None of those seemed to matter.

Present Participation

Although the military has always been a visible presence from both my maternal and paternal families, life in combat boots was almost pitch black to me. I was not aware then that the noble profession of arms wasn’t simply a job but a calling of which many were called but only few were chosen. Little did I know that it was not all about snappy drills, long weeks of being away from home, those woodland camouflage and that haircut. No, it was

more than that.

It was something that required earnest devotion and unwavering commitment to serve. It was, for the many I had heard from, something deeply rooted in the core of one’s being. Something that involved genuine dedication and life in its sacredness which cost more than the revenues of all tax-paying Filipinos combined.

It wasn’t until the recent months that my idea of cutthroat-looking-macho-figures-ready-to–crush-armed-hoodlums metamorphosised into people who have compassion and a sensitivity for others. These tough guys with a gentle spirit in reaching the frequently-forgotten taught me lessons I have not learned elsewhere. They set before me a canvas where I can draw a beautiful picture and display it to a corrupt world filled with self-centeredness, discontentment, greed, and apathy. They



taught me lessons enough to place me on a direction for self-fulfillment. They taught me lessons only learned by heart.

It is through their transformative, holistic approach to service that I- together with family and friends - was awesomely inspired to take part in.

It started with a Medical/Dental/Optical/Surgical Missions in different towns in South Cotabato which ignited the fire in my heart that wouldn’t stop blazing. The passion for humanitarian service was becoming larger than life that keeps me yearning for more. It led me to do a series of gift-giving and feeding programs to different villages in the outskirts of General Santos City, some towns in Sarangani Province, and in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat where I practically was drawn to the most.

William James once said, “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” This must be the adage this group of strong men yet with kind hearts chooses to live by. They stand on being a visible presence

in addressing various community needs which are within their unit’s capacity and in going the extra mile to extend assistance in select areas where main priorities to uplift human welfare are seldom met.

In the months where I took part in their CMO activities, I was in wonder how they can selflessly reach out and develop close mutual ties with the people to eradicate disparities and eventually focus on common grounds to bring peace and development which are a strong force for sustainable growth.

What amazes me even more is that they do it by bringing their services to the people, in constantly being around to let us all know that our Philippine Army cares and is always ready to serve no matter what the cost.

They continue to be at odds with this battle of indifference, poverty, and socio-cultural misunderstanding that hamper peaceful and harmonious living among citizens. These men and women who I

have grown to respect so much are in the frontlines to ease, if not totally eradicate, the evils of society which threaten long-term peace and development. They participate in community services which not only bridge gaps but also build relationships and give opportunities to those in the private sectors. They work alongside with ordinary citizens like me to do my share in uplifting communities, doing ripples of kindness, and changing lives one at a time.

It is through their efforts that I have come to realize that winning the fight does not always lie in the strength of an Army’s arsenal but in the nobility of its purposes, in being of service, in helping change communities, in acting as if what you do makes a difference no matter how simple it can be. Because, really, at the end of it all - it does.

Further, my participation with the Army’s Civil-Military Operations gave me brilliant privileges to take part in some Youth Leadership Summit programs,

• MS.CZASSYRODULFO



providing the youth of our country a bright, flourished and innovative way to lead their lives in a sustainable manner so that they would utilize their energies in building not only their own future but also to look after their families and communities. In turn, this encouraged me to organize a great variety of activities to give young people the experience to learn and demonstrate peaceful living together with people from different cultures and to contribute to the local community and to peace and development. It intensified the special eye I have for children especially those in far-flung places.

The Army, being in full force, opened doors so I can better myself, others, and the communities where we are a part of. I am bowled over at how they work to create a peaceful, equitable and compassionate society by unifying communities in service, inspiring the youth to lead with a heart-centered perspective and living in recognition that sustainable peace begins within. All of their projects for the young people are offered to ensure that all the youth receive the opportunity to participate in these transformative events that would make them learn today and lead tomorrow.

I believe it is with a gracious purpose that we all come together to learn how we can positively impact homes, peers, community, environment, and ourselves.

With a multitude of young people, we encouraged them to initiate service projects where they see a need in their communities. They serve locally, integrating themes such as: being drug-free, doing civic involvement, environmental stewardship, and the like.

Many of the youth whom I made friends with have experienced poverty, persecution, child labor, natural disasters, gang violence, and neglect; some have witnessed the atrocities of armed conflicts and have literally run for their lives; many have been uprooted from their

native cultures and struggle to integrate into an entirely unfamiliar world.

Most importantly, we took effort to nurture and cultivate the natural state of peace alive in our young people and to live daily with a loving consideration of others - a feat I once thought was dormant to me.

I was also given humbling opportunities to do my share in doing and giving livelihood assistance to a number of rebel returnees in the Province of Sarangani who are seeking to begin a new life completely different from the previous one they chose to walk in.

I once remember thinking that Mother Teresa might have led a very boring life helping the brethren of Calcutta and putting their needs first before hers. But working with the Army made me believe otherwise.

Over the last few months, we have helped dozens of people find peace in their hearts and meaning in their lives through service to others, me included.

I realized that the most direct way to experience a fuller life is to serve. I unite with the Army in seeking more meaningful lives with those in great need by channeling this inspiration into humanitarian service projects that matter.

My friends and I have had experiences with them that forever altered our sense of self and our ability to effect change in the

world.

The Army, my Philippine Army, has shown me the powerful gift that service brings to the world and to my own growth. It has definitely been a beacon on my path and I have boundless gratitude for these beautiful programs they have.

Serving with humility, vulnerability and deep willingness to learn is how my heart thrives. I realized that there is no sorrow or pain that cannot be healed through authentic giving, sharing, and reaching out.

With the Army helping me grow, I have learned to practice a quality of service that is given free of expectation and attachment, to show up willing to grow and be impacted. Regardless of background, I now approach one another as brother and sister, human to human. We come with undefended hearts, knowing that when our service is genuine, it catalyzes true transformation.

The wisdom of this work is in waking to a deeper, more purposeful life. My activities with the Army are a celebration of remembrance, recognition, and gratitude. It is doing something that will outlast life itself as a commitment to God and for love of country.

I have been frequently asked why I prefer to work with the Army. The connection lies in the character of these men – both some of the greatest of their generation and the pride of our nation. I count it a huge honor to serve my countrymen through the Army’s Civil Military Operations because

this is where I get to assist the Army in offering themselves

i n



Czassy Rodulfo writes from Jakarta. Her work involves clinical research. She is also an ESL Specialist for a University of Cambridge Int’l Center Pre-school and also does a lot of Charity Programs in line with the UNICEF’s advocacies.

service to others. I honor these men in uniform. I honor their sacrifices. This is why I volunteered working with them. I do not forget or take for granted the freedom they made me so blessed to enjoy.

These brave soldiers, who push against those who threaten to destroy peace and harm civilians, fight not only for the Country but they are also fighting simply for their families and friends. They are fighting for their wives and children to live in a land free of terrorism and those who would do us harm. They are fighting for their brother sitting next to them.

Tales of their bravery, physical prowess, and extraordinary skill will be told time and time again. They will inspire, enrage and humble the hearts of ordinary people like me. They are great, brave men, but I do not forget that they are men. They are sons, brothers, foster brothers, friends, cousins, husbands, fathers, and grandfathers. A description of “extraordinary,” is accurate. They are.

Still, these extraordinary men love, hurt, and laugh with the rest of us. Their humanity connects us all. The images that their loved ones will remember time and time again that will bring both joy and agony in their minds are those of a gentle smile, a goofy laugh, a knowing look.

They are the ones who have been thanked by our hearts for more than a thousand reasons but hardly ever by our words.

They are the ones who deserve a million appreciations but too often, we take them for granted.

I work with them because just like I do, they hope. They hope what we Filipinos all hope for: that our families will be able to live the best life possible; that opportunities would abound; that our country would be free from those who endanger its peace and order; that democracy will be enjoyed to the brim.

My outpouring of respect, support, and prayers to the wonderful

people I have come to know in the Army springs from a sincere appreciation of their belief in me. They believe I deserve this freedom which I have now. They believe I am worth sacrificing for, that I am worth protecting for. Even worth dying for. They believed in freedom- even their freedom to choose to be in military service even if that meant a path different from the rest of us. These brave and admirable men volunteered to put themselves in harm’s way time and time again, to be separated from their family for great lengths of time, to sacrifice for something bigger than self. And for this, I unite with them to serve.

The core grit and character of compassion is showing itself in so many ways it makes me tremble with humility. Tremble with love. Tremble with pride for the reminder of our goodness, of our hearts.

Being in service is heartfelt and passionate. It makes my heart tick.

Additionally, being in service with the Army reinvigorates my recognition and my gratitude for them.

“We sleep soundly in our beds at night because rough men stand ready to visit violence on those who would do us harm”. - Winston Churchill

It is an honor to know these men, much more to work with them. It is beyond incredible and comforting to know that these people are here and that they are my fellow countrymen, neighbors, family, and friends.

I reap in the bounty of their sacrifice. As I live in relative peace and comfort, I harvest their endeavors. They have sowed my freedom and comparable ease of life with their fight by risking their own lives because they know I am worth it. And that’s why I choose to serve, to work with them because they are worth it.

They are not our average man, but they are still a man. At the end of the day or returning from a trip, where, undoubtedly, they performed tasks straight out of an action film, they walk through doors into

safe havens where they are known simply as “kuya”, “pinsan”, “kaibigan”, “tito”, “tatay”, “lolo”, “asawa”. The beauty, the gift, in the way many live in this military community, is in the always present perspective we all receive: that life is fleeting, that tomorrow may not be given.

Time, precious time, is coveted and must be lived fully. Life is too short to waste on self so I decided to serve and give it all I got because I might not have the luxury of next time.

We only live once! I cannot afford to hesitate, procrastinate, or simply give up on serving others.

The Army has given me so much more than what I can ask for. Beyond their duties of defending me, they keep me grounded by always being grateful for my blessings and for sharing it to the least of us.

Since freedom is not free and is highly expensive, I therefore must not put it to waste. I exercise it to the best of my ability by helping those whom I can with what I have.

So even when I am a thousand miles away from my home country with those in the silent ranks who are also considered heroes in our own right (although not quite similar to the Army’s gallantry), I know I still have a country to call my own whenever I fly back.

The Army, and the other branches of service in the Armed Forces, will keep it. They will, so I can still call it mine.

I continue to do my passion for humanitarian service, despite the distance, as a result of the freedom they strive to maintain for me.

The Armed Forces thinks I am worth it.

For that reason, I serve others, my kababayan, because they, too, are worth it. I definitely believe they are.

Truly, the most direct way to experience a fuller life is to serve others.

Because after all, isn’t that what makes life really worth living?



Deadline for Submission of RaffleEntries

Draw Date Prizes

1st Qtr Draw April 4, 2012 April 16, 2012 10 Toyota Vios5 Honda Motorcycles

5 LED TVs (40”)P1.80M in cash prizes

2nd Qtr Draw July 4, 2012 July 16, 2012 10 Toyota Vios5 Honda Motorcycles


3rd Qtr Draw October 3, 2012 October 16, 2012 10 Toyota Vios5 Honda Motorcycles


4th Qtr Draw January 4, 2013 January 16, 2013 10 Toyota Vios5 Honda Motorcycles


PHILANTHROPIC DONORS

On behalf of the whole Philippine Army, we would like to thank the following individuals, institutions, organizations and religious affiliations who/which supported the relief operations of the Army Command intended for the victims of Typhoon Sendong:

1) Units/ Offices of the Philippine Army ( OCG/ OG1/ 0G2/OG3/OG4/OG5/OG6/OG7/OG8/OG9,PA; ARMO/ OACPA/CMOG/ APMC/HHSG/ ASR /AGH/525EBn/ARESCOM/ CPO/ 191st MPBn/ SEBn/FC, PA/ SOCOM/ ISG/ AHU, HHSG/ LAD/ IID/ 2ID/ 5ID/7ID/9ID/ 10ID/ 51st Engr Bde/ 74IB, 2ID/TRADOC/1301st DD/FSRR, SOCOM/MPBn, HHSG/SSU, ASCOM/OAIA/85IB, 2ID/1354th Dental/

2) Bureau of Customs3) Inter Continental Hotels Group4) Purity Papers Corporation5) Rock Ed Philippines6) SP Castro Inc.7) Tann Philippines8) Center of Outdoor Recreation and Expedition (CORE)9) La Bodega Restaurant10) Fort Bonifacio Evangelical Church11) Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan12) Christ the King Parish Church13) Christ The King Church (Green Meadows)14) Mary Mother of God Council Parish, Paranaque City15) San Jose Seminary16) Pasig Foundation17) RFM Foundation18) Phinma Foundation19) Christ’s Commission Foundation Inc.20) Infant Jesus Catholic Community (IJCC) – PCCI Tarlac21) Knights of Columbus (Corinthian Hills)22) Rotary Club of San Juan West23) Rotary Club, Pasig24) Hadji Butu Rasul Memorial Lodge 393 (Freemasons)25) Polythenic University of the Philippines26) Ateneo University c/o Ms Marissa Lerias27) Xavier School- San Juan28) Miriam College29) Athens Academy30) De Castro Elementary School, Pasig City31) General Parents Teachers Association of Fort Bonifacio

Elementary School32) Fort Bonifacio High School Alumni Batch ‘9433) Immaculate Heart of Mary College – Paranaque34) UP Mountaineers35) Dragon Boat Team36) Rizal Association of Car Enthusiasts. Inc.37) Residents of Barangay Central, Signal Village, Taguig City38) Residents of Guico St., CEMBO, Makati City39) Col Roseller G Murillo (OG8, PA)40) LtC Ronald Jess S Alcudia41) LTC Roxas42) Dr Ma Cecilia DG Bartolome (1301st DD)43) Ms Ana Lacuesta44) Mrs Sta Ana Velarde45) Ms Lita Arenas of Paranaque City

In line with the year-long 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Armed Forces and Police Savings & Loan Association Inc. (AFPSLAI), forty (40) brand new Toyota Vios cars will be given away to lucky Regular members who availed of a consumption loan from January 2, 2012 to December 28, 2012. This is AFPSLAI’s way of thanking its members for makingAFPSLAI their financial partner for the lastfour decades.For every P50,000 net proceeds (before CRI & DST) on Salary, Pension, Emergency or Multi-Purpose Loan, aborrowergetsonerafflecouponandachancetowin a Toyota Vios in one of its quarterly draws. Also up for grabs are 20 Honda motorcylces, 20 Samsung LED TV sets, and P7.2M in cash prizes.

Schedule for the quarterly draw dates is as follows:

AFPSLAI TO RAFFLE OFF 40 CARSON ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY PROMO

Avail of a loan now, and you might just be one of the lucky winners! Promo runs from January 28, 2012 to December 28, 2012.

All raffledrawsshallbeheldat theHeadOffice inCamp Aguinaldo, Quezon City in the presence of a DTI representative.

See posters and print ads for complete details. Per DTI-NCR Permit No. 0524 Series of 2012.



Isang mapagbunyi at mapagparangal na pagbati sa bawa’t kawal at kawani ng hukbo sa paggunita natin ngayon ng ika-115 taong pagkakatatag ng Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas.

Ang ating mga ninunong makabayang Pilipino at ang noo’y bagong tatag na Hukbong Katihan ang nanguna sa pag-aaklas sa mga dayuhang mananakop. Ang kanilang matagumpay na pakikipaglaban ang pinag-ugatan ng ating pinakaaasam na kalayaan at pagsilang ng isang malayang Republika ng Pilipinas.

Hinubog ng kasaysayan ang Hukbong Katihan. Nagtala tayo ng marami pang tagumpay, hinangaan at ipinagmamalaki ng buong bayan, at kinilala sa buong daigdig dahil sa dangal, katapatan, at katapangang ipinamalas ng kawal Pilipino. Sa ating mga pakikibaka, namulat tayo sa mga mahahalagang aral na naging batayan sa pagpapatupad at pangangalaga ng kapayapaan.

Lumipas ang mga panahon at patuloy nating pinatatag ang tungkulin ng Hukbong Katihan. Naharap tayo sa mga pagsubok sa pagpapahusay ng mga kagamitan at pagpapalawak ng kakayahan natin bunsod ng mga kampanya laban sa insurhensiya at ibang banta sa pambansang seguridad, at maging sa pangangailangan ng maagap na pagtugon sa mga sakuna at kalamidad.

Sa kabila nito, patuloy tayong nagsusumikap sa pagsulong ng pagbabago at modernisasyong tungo sa mahusay, makabuluhan, at mas epektibong tugon sa mga pambansang simulain at pangangailangan.

Buong tiwala nating tutuparin ang ating mga gawain para sa seguridad, at pagkakaisa sa mga pamayanan at pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng IPSP Bayanihan at Army Transformation Roadmap. Bibigyan natin ng kabuluhan ang ating layunin at tema ng ating pagdiriwang para sa taong ito: “Philippine Army: Serving the people, Securing the land.”

Sa ating ikasandaan at labinlimang taon, sama-sama nating itaguyod ang kapayapaan at isulong ang pagbabago at dangal ng ating hukbo.

Mabuhay ang Hukbong Katihan!

Mabuhay tayong lahat!

jan-mar 2012

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