MANILA — After two months of rigorous training, 74 new cadets joined the Philippine Army Officer Candidate School (OCS) during their so-called incorporation rites at Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on Thursday.
Class 52-2019, or Class “Alibtak” (“Alagad ng Lahing Ibinigkis ng Tapang at Kagitingan”), is composed of 67 male and seven female cadets.
“Alibtak” is also the Ilocano term for fast and tenacious, military public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said in a statement to the media.
Detoyato said the cadets began training last Aug. 17 and were presented to Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., who led the ceremonies at the Philippine Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
The trainees or “dumbguards” were subjected to strict and absolute rules and regulations, and were stripped off of privileges that they used to enjoy as civilians.
In his speech, Galvez called on the cadets to strive hard in becoming future leaders worthy of the people’s trust and confidence.
“You have to prove your worth and do your best to meet the standards set by the Officer Candidate School, which is preparing you on your future role in the Armed Forces as public servants, agents of change, nation-builders and peace makers,” Galvez said.
The OCS is the second source of military officers after the Philippine Military Academy.
Following the incorporation rites, they will be transferred to the battalion barracks with their seniors belonging to Class 51-2018 “Regalia”, which has 82 members.
The new cadets are now eligible to hold the rank of Probationary 2nd Lieutenant.
They will still undergo the Basic Officer Leadership Course 1 for one year before being commissioned as regular 2nd Lieutenants.
All of the members are holders of a bachelor’s degree, either in science or arts. Most of them are licensed criminologists and civil service professionals.
Others are licensed nurses, accountants, teachers, engineers, an architect and an interior designer. They came from various regions of the country — 43 from Luzon, 17 from Visayas, and 14 from Mindanao. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
