317 newly trained soldiers join Army

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Isabela–The Armed Forces of the Philippines has 317 new soldiers “ready to serve” after members of two training classes formally joined the Army during graduation rites here on Friday.

The new soldiers were led by 19-year-old Ganu town resident James Toribio and Major John Ballesteros who were the top performers of the training classes.

“Becoming a soldier was not easy. You need to pass through all the challenges, you need to (rely) on 99-percent perspiration and one-percent inspiration to pursue your ambition,” said Toribio, a high school graduate who completed an auto-mechanic vocational course.

Toribio was also awarded with the sharpshooters’ marksmanship badge, along with Jan Christopher Ilustrado.

Ballesteros was a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), who aspired to become an Army soldier. Born to a family of farmers, Ballesteros said he signed up with the military to help his family.

Major General Pablo Lorenzo, commander of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division, said the new graduates must “move, change and affect the visible world.”

“Gain confidence in times of combat and in times of peace. You are in a different world but make necessary adjustments as the call for service to God and people need you to respond,” said Tabuk Bishop Prudencio Andaya, who spoke during the ceremony.