When duty calls, the Philippine Army responds.
This saying within the military organization was proven true when two female Army personnel were captured in a photograph while carrying in their arms a civilian who got involved in a vehicular accident in Tagum, Davao del Norte last March 12.
A stolen shot of the two Army soldiers went viral on social media as it showed both the gentleness and strength of the women -- all smiles despite the challenging situation they were in -- as they responded to the call of duty to save lives.
The women in the now viral photo are Private First Class Donna Mae Barrientos and Private First Class Arlen Calivoso, both cannoneers and members of the Army’s 2nd Field Artillery Battalion, Army Artillery Regiment (2FAB, AAR) under the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division (10ID).
Accordingly, the two soldiers were detailed to participate in a static display and capability demonstration of their unit in line with the Mindanao-leg of the 125th Philippine Army Day when the accident occurred.
Zenia Eden Ponce, one of the three victims who posted the viral photo, said she was onboard a motorcycle en route to a mall when they figured in an accident with another motorcycle along the national highway in Tagum around 11:55 a.m. last March 12.
Apparently, Barrientos and Calivoso witnessed the accident and immediately evacuated the wounded victims amid the heavy rains. They carried the victims using their bare hands and helped in giving first aid to them.
“How thankful I am for God’s providence and mercy that there were no fatalities and only minor injuries were sustained by all of us three victims,” Ponce said in a local dialect.
“I can’t help seeing these photos and honoring these two women from the 2FAB, AAR, Philippine Agila Troopers. What a good timing that they were in the area,” she added.
Incidentally, the incident occurred as the nation celebrates the International Women’s Month this March.
Barrientos and Calivoso could not be more proud and happier when they were cited by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their acts of service.
In a statement, the AFP paid tribute to the lady cannooneers and said: “The swift and selfless act of the troops showed that your Armed Forces of the Philippines will be at your service, rain or shine.”
Meanwhile, Barrientos and Calivoso lauded all the women in the military, saying gender is not a hindrance to excel in a male-dominated profession.
“As we continue to bear responsibility for protecting our beloved country and people, let us encourage and assist one another in achieving pleasure and tranquility regardless of the situations we encounter. Don’t be scared, aspiring young ladies; instead, be brave!” said Barrientos, who is also a combat medic.
“There are different ways to empower ourselves as a woman: stand up for yourself, stay positive, and empower your thoughts,” Calivoso, an assistant administrative non-commissioned officer, added.