TWO hundred and twenty-seven new soldiers took their oath as new members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 6th Infantry Division based in Central Mindanao.

The oathtaking ceremony was held Thursday, July 30, at the 6th Division Training School in Semba village, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, after their completed six-month rigorous training that started March 1, this year.

The new soldiers consisting of 189 males and 38 females belong to “Matindig” Class of 631-2020. The class name stand for “Mandirigmang may Tikas Na Dignidad,” which signifies their class resilient comradeship and compassion.

Major General Diosdado Carreon, Joint Task Force Central commander, said the graduates underwent rigorous training that engaged in different activities, which includes Basic Military Training and War Fighting Competency training.

Candidate Soldier Jodelio Amor B. Esteban received the leadership award for demonstrating an outstanding attitude, military knowledge and exemplary military bearing.

Amor also received the Physical Fitness Proficiency Award for obtaining the highest rating in the Physical Fitness Test with a general average of 98 percent.

Candidate Soldier Noel N Catahom as Top Gun received the special award for obtaining the highest rating in the Basic Marksmanship with a general average of 100 percent.

“Tiwala ako na sa buong anim na buwan na training ninyo ay natutunan ninyo ang mga kaalamang kinakailangan ng ating organisasyon,” Carreon said. (SunStar Zamboanga)