A total of 168 female candidate soldiers of Candidate Soldier Course Class of 702-21 graduated from Initial Military Training Center, Training and Doctrine Command of the Philippine Army.
Sundalong Itinakda na may Natatanging Abilidad at Galing or SINAG class hurdled 16 weeks of Basic Military Training designed to transform them from civilians into professional, motivated, and disciplined soldiers.
Guest of Honor and Speaker 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Andrew Costelo encouraged the soldiers to inculcate the values they learned in the training throughout their endeavor.
“Let your training be your foundation to conquer all the challenges you will encounter in fulfilling your duties and responsibilities,” Costelo said.
Graduates will continue training for Infantry Operation Course, the next phase of their training, for four months to be equipped with necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies for jungle warfare and urban operations.
Costelo also reminded the graduates to adhere to the orders of their heads.
“I am hoping now that you are officially professional soldiers, you will obey and comply with the command of your leaders,” he added.
Private Jane Bandojo of Sto. Domingo, Albay topped the class; followed by Private Vivian Abbanag of Tabuk City, Kalinga; and Private Lady Carel Lorenzo of Conner, Apayao who finished as top 3.
Two members of SINAG class were former rebels who turned themselves in the folds of the government and later joined the Philippine Army with full commitment of protecting the Filipinos from becoming victims of terrorist groups. (MJSC/GLSB-PIA 3)