A total of 191 newly-trained soldiers should expect to face many challenges after they successfully completed a four-month rigid training under the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID).

“This is just the start of your journey as a soldier. Expect that you will face many challenges, and your life maybe even put on the line, but that is part and parcel of our noble profession,” Brig. Gen. Lenard Agustin, commander of the Army’s 7ID, said in his speech a simple ceremony at the 7ID grandstand here on Friday (Oct. 11).

Agustin said the new batch of soldiers underwent Candidate Soldier Course (CSC) from June 17 to Oct. 11 this year.

“As for the parents of our new soldiers here, our highest respect goes to all of you for giving your love, support, and understanding to our young soldiers. You serve as their inspiration,” Agustin said.

Aurora Governor Gerardo Noveras said the government and the people should unite and work to achieve peace throughout the country.

“The government and the people should work together,” Noveras said in his message read by retired Col. Fernando Calugtong.

“As provincial governor, I follow the lead of the President on taking active and decisive action to counter communist terrorist groups,” he added.

Calugtong who once trained at Fort Magsaysay, is now the provincial peace advisor of Aurora.

The 191 soldiers underwent four-month training after passing the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) and the routine Physical Fitness Test (PFT), neuro-psychological examination, general physical exam, board interview, and final deliberation. (PNA)