GAMU, Isabela – Pvt. Carmencita Alberto, who hails from Conner, Apayao led the Philippine Army Class 761-2023 during their graduation rites held at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Upi, Gamu, Isabela.
Clinching an outstanding rating of 92.78, Alberto topped her class with her focus and determination during the six-month long rigorous military training.
Despite being immersed into a men-dominated field, she stood out bearing in mind her passion to serve and defend the nation.
In an interview, Alberto relayed she had employed strategies of finishing well.
“During the training po, napakahirap dahil po babae po ako, pero no bias, we have gender equality, pero may sikreto po diyan para malagpasan lahat ng challenges. Ito po ay ang makibagay, makisama, at makiramdam,” she said.
She also expressed that there were times when she considered giving up, but she reminded herself of her sacrifices, her family, and the support she obtained. “May mga times na pinanghihinaan man, pero inisip ko talaga yung mga reasons na dapat ako ay magpatuloy, never give up, laban lang,” Alberto recalled.
Moreover, the education graduate stated that she hopes that her accomplishment would inspire more women to join the military. “Ang impact nito ay mag-inspire pa lalo sa mga kapwa ko na babae na sumubok at maging kasangga natin sa pagdefend ng ating bansa,” she added.
She likewise expressed gratitude to the people who had been her constant source of inspiration in her journey, primarily her family, friends, relatives, and the provincial government of Apayao who provided her all the means of support in order to fulfill her dream of becoming a public servant.
“Kapag nangarap kang magsundalo, dapat pinaghahandaan yan, hindi lang physically at mentally kundi sa lahat ng aspeto dahil hindi madali ang training. Magulang ko ang inspirasyon ko para malagpasan ang lahat ng pagsubok sa loob ng training school,” Alberto concluded. By Jomela Dela Torre
