A TOTAL of 26 new female soldiers took their oath as official members of the Philippine Army at the 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Tuesday, March 3.
Of the 141 female applicants, only 26 passed the comprehensive and stringent selection process, which includes the written examination, physical and medical examinations, trade/skill test, board interviews, and completing all the requirements for enlistment in the military service.
Jean Aplacador, a farmer's daughter, also expressed her joy, saying she is now a step closer to her dream of becoming a full-fledged Army female soldier after the military training.
"Kini tanan para sa akong pamilya, makatabang na ko sa akong ginikanan aron mapahuman sa pag eskwela ang akong upat ka mga manghud (All of these I offer to my family. I can now help my parents so that my four siblings can finish their education)," she said.
Brigadier General Oliver Vesliño, assistant division commander of 4ID, welcomed the new soldiers to the "world of service to the nation."
"Your oath today comes with a gentle reminder of the life that you will have to leave behind, and your profession will transport you to a new world of service to the nation. After you've been given the chance to wear the uniform of the Army, always remember that you no longer carry the identities that you once possessed as civilians before you entered the military service. You will be molded and trained like all other infantry women to become a professional soldier," he said.
The oath-taking of new female soldiers was in time as the country celebrates March as the Women's Month.
Major General Franco Nemesio Gacal, commander of 4ID, said, "Such is the essence of the Gender Development and Women Empowerment- proving that we give equal opportunity to everyone, to lead and excel in their respective fields, and make change work for women here in 4th Infantry Division." (PR)