FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila - The Officer Candidate School under the Training and Doctrine Command, Philippine Army based at Camp O’ Donnell, Capas, Tarlac recently held the traditional recognition rite for members of Officer Candidate Course “ALIBTAK” Class 52-2019, on October 18, 2018. Said ceremony was attended by no less than the Chief of Staff, AFP, General Carlito Galvez Jr. as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
The 74 new Officer Candidate composed of 67 male and 7 female that bears the class name “ALIBTAK” which stands for “Alagad ng Lahing Ibinigkis ng Tapang at Kagitingan”, an Ilocano term for fast and tenacious started their training at TRADOC in August 17, 2018. The trainees or “dumbguards”, as part of the transformation process were placed in a separate barracks for two months and subjected to strict rules and regulations. They were stripped-off of privileges that they used to enjoy as civilians.
In the speech of CSAFP, he called upon the cadets to strive hard in becoming future leaders who are worthy of the peoples trust and confidence. “You were pushed to do intense physical exercises to strengthen your body and mind. All of your actions need to be orderly and precise. Many would tag the “dumbguard” days as the worst days of their lives. But always remember, it is our worst days that bring out the best version of ourselves”, he added.
Following the incorporation ceremony, the junior OCs will be transferred to the Battalion barracks with their seniors belonging to class 51-2018 “REGALIA” which currently has 82 members. The incorporation rite is a significant tradition in the OCS as it symbolizes that the new cadets are truly fit and worthy of becoming military officers. #
