Manila: Tarlac: Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has called on the country's newest Army officers to remain steadfast in their 'sacred duty' to the Republic as they assume leadership roles amid an increasingly complex security environment. Representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is on an official visit to Canada, Teodoro led the joint graduation ceremony of the Officer Candidate Course (OCC) 'Gundaway' Class 64-2026 and OCC-Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) 'Talagilab' Class 03-2026 at the Officer Candidate School of the Philippine Army's Training and Doctrine Command in Camp O'Donnell.
According to Philippines News Agency, a total of 552 new officers graduated from the two programs, consisting of 362 graduates from OCC "Gundaway" Class 64-2026 and 190 graduates from OCC-ROTC "Talagilab" Class 03-2026. In his speech, Teodoro conveyed the Commander-in-Chief's congratulations and expressed confidence in the new officers as they formally join the ranks of the Philippine Army.
Teodoro conveyed his honor in being the guest of honor, emphasizing the humility he felt in witnessing the young officers' journey through challenges. He noted, 'You struggled and you overcame. And you chose a path not easy to get to where you are.' Teodoro further expressed a sense of responsibility to enhance efforts in building a credible deterrent posture for the Republic of the Philippines.
Highlighting military service as a 'sacred calling,' Teodoro stressed the importance of the Republic and its future as the highest purpose of every soldier. He acknowledged the graduates' sacrifices and determination as pivotal in strengthening the country's defense posture against internal and external threats, ensuring national security for future generations.
Teodoro underscored the Philippine Army's essential role in preserving internal peace and stability, linking a strong external defense posture to lasting domestic security. He drew parallels between the graduates' personal hardships and the heroism of Filipino soldiers like Capt. Conrado Yap and Lt. Jose Arciaga, who fought in the Korean War.
Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete highlighted the recalibration and enhancement of the Army's training curriculum to meet modern warfare demands. He emphasized the adaptability and strength of Filipino soldiers to thrive in today's volatile security environment.
Among the graduates, Probationary 2nd Lt. Fernando M. Abanag Jr., top graduate of OCC 'Gundaway,' and Probationary 2nd Lt. Gilnove R. Olmedo, top graduate of OCC-ROTC 'Talagilab,' received the Presidential Sabers. The OCC is a one-year training program for college graduates aspiring to become commissioned second lieutenants, while the OCC-ROTC is a six-month program for reserve officers seeking Army commissions.
