RISING THROUGH THE RANKS: "MY CADETSHIP JOURNEY TO OFFICERSHIP"
CONTENT OVERVIEW
 "Leadership with Nobility Transforming PNPA: A Legacy of PMGEN ERIC E NOBLE" |  "Learning Through Experience: Gaining Insight from the Preliminary Investigation Process" |  "The Power of Faith: Embracing Unity and Hope in La Trinidad" |  The Immaculate: A Journey Towards Officership |
|---|---|---|---|
 "Sharing Competent and Ethical Investigative Skills Among PNPA Cadets for Effective Law Enforcement" |  "Unwavering Courage and Resilience: The Story of PCol Malimban, The Living Legend of Marawi Siege" |  "The Power of Self-Awareness and Values-Based Leadership in Finding Direction: A Book Review" |  44 Days of Faith and Valor: A Story of Resilience and Perseverance Amidst Adversities |
 "Movie Review of the Intricate Mind Games of Pale Blue Eye: A Tale of Mystery and Madness" |  "Fortitude and Self-Mastery: The Essential Ingredients for Success in Cadetship" |  PNPA Cadets on Enhanced Management Operations: An Eye-Opening Briefing |  The Immaculates and the Ecclesiastical: A Conference in Baguio |
 "Empowering Cordillera College to be Catalysts for Nation Development Through Being Iskolars Para sa Bayan" |  "Strengthening The Ties Between Future Officers and The Sangguniang Bayan For Community Development" |  "Overcoming the Struggles: How Hardship of Plebehood Forge the Path to Extraordinary Destinations" |  Close Quarter Battle: A Cadet's Challenge to Urban Warfare |
 "Brotherhood, Camaraderie, and Loyalty: The Foundation of My Squad, My Family" |  Spreading Excellence and Inspiring Future Leaders: PNPA Cadets Sharing the Good News About PNPA |  PRO-Cordillera, “Home Of The Most Disciplined Cops” |
"From No ID, No Entry into To Learn Today, To Lead Tomorrow: A Journey of Dedication to Public Service"
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11
This verse from the Bible served as my inspiration to push through hardship and conquer adversity in life despite poverty. Growing up, I had a challenging childhood, but I didn't allow it to stop me from achieving my goals and carrying out my late mother's final desire.
I had just turned 8 years old when my mother died from cancer. My only sources of encouragement were my father, Mr. Rizalito Basalan, and my two siblings, Regimar and Rhiane Kate, so I put more effort into my studies to fulfill my ambition for a better life.
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I've always wanted to be a police officer ever since I was a little kid. My mother's death in 2008, however, was the most terrible turn of events in my life. I realize that my father can't meet all of our requirements by himself. I have a seven-year-old brother and a one-year-old baby sister who are my two younger siblings. Early on, we came to understand how challenging it is to live without a mother. However, despite all of this, we are still appreciative of our diligent and devoted father who selflessly sacrifices his time, energy, and resources so that we can pursue our education. Because of my father's never-ending sacrifices and dedication to ensure I complete my education, I was able to attend college. In my instance, I applied to serve as a security marshal at Cordillera Career Development College as a working student.
I chose to take the course Bachelor of Science in Criminology because I hope to work as a police officer in the future. It's challenging to be a working student; I work in my spare time and have nighttime duties to complete after class. I had to balance my profession and studies at the same time, which was really challenging. I am also receiving a full scholarship, therefore I cannot afford to fail any of my classes. I sometimes feel envious of my friends who have more free time, but I have to prioritize my academics. As a security guard, I came across a number of people who were rather snobbish about us. Every time we do our duties, we are subjected to criticism, insults, and mockery, particularly when we alert students to violations of the rules and regulations of the school. Despite the mistreatment and humiliation, this place is where I develop as an individual.
I spent many long and arduous hours patrolling buildings, monitoring surveillance footage, and responding to alarms. Even though at times it seemed like a thankless job, I took pride in knowing that I was in charge of safeguarding people and important things. Routine tasks dominated my days, but I never allowed myself to get comfortable. I was aware that even the most routine tasks might suddenly become a matter of life or death, so I always needed to be prepared. I was continuously on guard and perceptive, looking around me for any indications of danger. Being a security guard involved dealing with the unexpected, which was one of the hardest challenges.
As soon as I learned about the Philippine National Police Academy, I seized the opportunity to join the PNPACAT. I had the good fortune to succeed on the test, however, I struggled a lot during our application process due to a lack of finances, but I am grateful because God has his own means of assisting me and answering my prayers because of the kind-hearted people that assisted me until I am successfully selected to join the PNPA Masidtalak Class of 2023.
The 4th of May 2019 marks one of the happiest moments of my life. That day was filled with joy, emotions, and excitement as I prepared to go on the route I'd always wanted to take: being one of the chosen few who compose The Loong Maroon Line and will soon face the hardships of the real-life scenario as young lieutenants. Our cadetship life, which lasted four years at the Academy, was a difficult voyage. We were taught to face great difficulties, overcome overwhelming odds, and be the finest versions of ourselves. The Philippine National Police Academy has enhanced our principles and trained us to become reliable and trustworthy future police officers.
As a cadet, I know that I'll face new challenges and new expectations. But I'm eager to rise to the occasion, to show what I'm capable of, and to prove that I have what it takes to serve and protect. I'm proud of my time as a security guard, and I know that the lessons I learned will serve me well in my new role. And now, as I get ready to be commissioned as a police officer, I feel a sense of success and pride. Knowing that it took a lot of work to get me to this point, I'm appreciative of everyone who helped me along the road, including my mentors, friends, family, and lastly the Academy which molds me to be the person who I am today.
I'm also aware that the journey ahead won't be simple. Being a police officer is a tough and perilous career that calls for a strong sense of dedication and the ability to put the interests of others above your own. Nonetheless, I'm up for the task, I am certain that I have the knowledge, experience, and assistance required for success. I'm excited to begin this new chapter in my life since I know I'm making a difference. Now, as a graduating cadet, I'm ready to take my training to the next level. I've learned so much already, from the basics of law enforcement to the finer points of crisis management. I feel more confident in my abilities and more prepared for whatever challenges may come my way.
After taking the road less traveled and overcoming all of the trials and challenges of cadetship life, I can now say that I'm living my goal as a soon-to-be police lieutenant eager to serve my family and fellow countrymen.
"Leadership with Nobility Transforming PNPA: A Legacy of PMGEN ERIC E NOBLE"
“There are two ways of spreading light: To be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”
— Edith Wharton (1)
A year ago, life at the Philippine National Police Academy was a bit different. There were several events that happened in that short period of time that significantly affected the people concerned. A few instances include the victory of Ferdinand "Bong Bong" Marcos for President, the ascent of the Omicron Variant, and the catastrophe that erupted into the conflict in Ukraine and Russia, which sent prices through the roof. There is no exception in the case of the Philippine National Police Academy, where PMGEN ERIC E. NOBLE's appointment as the Academy's Director is one of the key developments that has led to several advancements.
Prior to overseeing the prestigious Philippine National Police Academy, PMGEN NOBLE was a remarkable leader who had a significant impact on the primary initiatives of his component organizations and a large number of officers of the Philippine National Police. One of them was his selection as the Director of the Police Community Affairs and Development Group. He did not only started PCADG's efforts to lead the information campaign, but he also enhanced the tools necessary for PCADG operations to assure their applicability in both the physical and virtual worlds, which is why PCADG sees him as a game-changer for the organization (2).
Now, as Director of the Philippine National Police Academy, PMGEN NOBLE is committed to a mission to shape the Cadet Corps' future and establish himself as the Academy's influential leader by launching the Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayapaan, equals Kaunlaran program, and the War Against Hazing and Guard Against Maltreatment initiative.
Furthermore, he strives to ensure that every cadet can reach their dreams and aspirations and to ensure that every Cadet's life is beautiful(3). Furthermore, his leadership also upgraded many facilities of the Academy such as the construction of important academic and tactics facilities, refurbishing and reconstruction of dormitories, implementation of water stations for thirsty Cadets, and many more that are beneficial to the general welfare of the Cadets and those that will follow their footsteps. Under his guidance, the things that every Cadet wished for during their plebe hood days were realized during his administration earning him the adoration of the Cadets and their families. For they know that as long as he continuously leads the Academy, their future is in safe hands.
Truly, with his knowledge and guidance with the Philippine National Police Academy, the academy will remain steadfast in its future. Thus, seeing leaders like him, who can have the simplest yet most effective ideas is very important for he can achieve incredible things or game-changing concepts that will move not just Philippine National Police Academy, but the whole organization to better heights. With his presence, the Cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy are ensured of continuous and overwhelming support from the Director in their pursuit of growth and development in their academics, tactics, spiritual and leadership capabilities.
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(1) Wharton, E. (1909). "Vesalius in Zante "There are two ways of spreading light: be light or be the mirror that reflects it. Retrieved from https://medium.com/@ClaytonJJensen/hardshipmakes-us-extraordinary-8e34e089270c
(2) Allatog B. (2023) What is within the HYPHEN? https://bordsphl.com/what-is-within-the-hyphen/
(3) East-West Center Association (2011) https://ewcablog.org/tag/eric-escosio-noble/
"Unwavering Courage and Resilience: The Story of PCol Malimban, The Living Legend of Marawi Siege"
We are very fortunate to have PCOL REX ARVIN T MALIMBAN, one of the heroes of the Marawi Siege, as our speaker for the Enhanced Learning Package, a program that our Director has supported for the graduating class, the MASIDTALAK CLASS OF 2023. Our Director wants to increase the graduating class's knowledge and leadership abilities so that when we leave this Academy, we are prepared to handle real-world situations.
PCOL REX ARVIN T MALIMBAN is a proud member of PNPA KAPANALIG CLASS OF 1997. He is the youngest to graduate not only in their class but among all other graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy. He was able to graduate at the young age of 20 because the Cadetship training is only two (2) years throughout their period. He was a young inspector who was so eager to join the Special Action Force but was ineligible due to his age. Before being reassigned to head the LRT (Light Reaction Team) with older, more seasoned, and well-trained subordinates, he was first sent to another unit where he gathered experience. He told us that in order to be regarded by his subordinates as competent enough to command them, he pushed himself to complete numerous operations courses, including the Commando Course, the Snipers' Course, and other training pertinent to police operations.
Additionally, PCOL MALIMBAN was honored with national and international accolades(1). He was dispatched on a crucial mission to a foreign country during the war, like Syria. Without any ties abroad, he managed to save 1,000 Filipino expatriate employees by himself. He stayed abroad, gaining a variety of experiences that helped him develop into a stronger officer. By 2017, he has been given the responsibility of commanding the SAF troops during the Marawi Siege. He served as an amazing example of a leader that not only commands his followers but also sets an example for them.
During their mission, he claims that he forbade his troops from taking anything from the war-damaged businesses other than the food that they desperately required because they did not have enough supplies for their month-long stay in Marawi. Additionally, despite the fact that he was already a senior officer at the time, he continued to lead his soldiers, encouraging them as they fought their foes. He stayed with his comrades until the battle was over, demonstrating his prowess in battle techniques, tactics, and talent. He has shown himself and won numerous accolades for displaying bravery and valor. That motivated them to persevere through the hardships and tribulations of the five (5) month-long battle and ultimately triumph over the militants linked to the Islamic State, the Maute group, and the Jihadist group.
I came to understand during the session that we future officers should not only demand but also provide an example for our soldiers to follow since a strong leader does so. Also, he has demonstrated exceptional service, particularly in the operational areas which most impressed me. Additionally, he stated that commitment, ethics, and discipline are crucial in the military. He also revealed to us that the decision the SAF commander gave them to back the army in an assault on the last enemy base when he felt they were already finished was the hardest one he had to make at the moment. He was dejected because he was concerned about how many of his troops might perish in the combat once more.
However, as an officer, he must continue to stand and command his troops until the battlefield is freed. They were able to complete their task as a result of his superb leadership and teamwork with the troops. His life teachings taught me a lot, and they also motivated me. He is an officer who should be imitated since he not only sets a great example for his followers but also cares about their wellbeing.
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(1) Tupas E. (2019) PhilStar Global Marawi cops get medals, promotion Retrieved from https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/05/30/1921983/marawi-cops-get-medals-promotion
PRO-CORDILLERA
"HOME OF THE MOST DISCIPLINED COPS"
The Police Regional Office-Cordillera, headed by Regional Director PBGEN MAFELINO A BAZAR, received a courtesy call from the Cordilleran Cadets as a matter of politeness. The brief conversation covered a variety of subjects, including a discussion of Cordilleran traditions and ideals. As one of the upperclassmen put it, "We Cordillerans must continue to be focused and committed to serving the public if we want to improve our reputation in the community." They proudly displayed the title of "Most Disciplined Cops" held by PRO-CORDILLERA.
Accordingly, the secret of their success is that the Cordillerans have the sense of the Supreme Being (God) engraved in their cultural practices, way of thinking, and cultural relationship dubbed as "Inayan."(1) This was a guiding principle established by our ancestors or forefathers to avoid doing immoral things. Because of the "Inayan" cautious attitude and fear, one tends to avoid taking chances, but it also prevents one from indulging in some bad or unwanted activities. The spirituality of the Igorots in general is encapsulated in their firm trust in the Almighty.
With such conviction, Inayan's basic beliefs serve as guiding ideas in their daily lives. Inayan is a prominent communal value, comparable to karma(2). This virtue cautions people against violating cultural norms or taboos. They claimed that this is a cultural value that fosters discipline, order, and harmony among members of families, clans, the community, or the tribe, as well as between individuals and the environment.
This mentioned trait was the character shared by all Cordilleran Police Officers, which is why they were labeled the most disciplined policeman. In the face of all the challenges that the current Philippine National Police experience, the Cordilleran Police Officers remain steadfast in bringing the best service to the Filipino People.
Finally, we as Cordillerans are pleased with their accomplishment. However, continuing the legacy of the Cordilleran Cops is a significant challenge for us as new breeds of public safety officers. We must have the heart of true public service to continue the legacy of the Cordilleran Cops. Lastly, because of this guiding principle, Inayan, we can contribute to building a better image of PNP as a whole.
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(1) International Journal of Advanced Research in Management and Social Sciences Retrieved from https://garph.co.uk/IJARMSS/Feb2016/19.pdf
(2) The Cordilleran Sun. Retrieved from https://www.cordilleransun.com/2019/12/the-concept-of-inayan-among-igorots.html
"Greatness Comes from Humble Beginnings"
Sic Parvis Magna
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