CAMP CASTANEDA, Cavite -- For new police Inspector Roan Marie Bascugin, public service knows no gender.

Having graduated valedictorian in a male-dominated class and entering a male-dominated organization, Bascugin did not let her gender get in the way of achieving her goals.

"Achieving this coveted plum proves that through hard work and perseverance, women are also capable of doing and achieving things that men have done before," Bascugin said in her valedictory address at the graduation ceremonies of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Kaisang-Bisig class on Thursday here.

"People often ask me what I did to reach this point. But I can't give them any special and exceptional answer, I give the best in everything I do, ensure that I finish all which I started, and keep my determination and perseverance with me, sacrifice if situation calls for it, and never forget who I am doing this for," Bascugin said.

She also assured President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo that the 304-strong Kaisang-Bisig class would be "adept and virtuous" leaders working for a shared vision that is peace.

"Public service knows no gender. All men and women in service to the people are driven by the same passion to lead by serving others. Giving ourselves in our profession knows no bounds. Whatever bureau we may be, we are bounded by the same oath," Bascugin told her fellow graduates.

In an earlier interview, Bascugin said she wants to be assigned to police regional office 3.

Her father, Superintendent Rustico Bascugin, is currently assigned at the Police Community Relations Group at Camp Crame.