Soldiers “rejuvenated” after serving Pope

CEBU, Philippines - Year 2015 has been a blessed year for the 400 policemen from the Regional Public Safety Battalion–7 deployed to Tacloban City last week after seeing a glimpse of Pope Francis and personally feeling the “Pope-mania.”

RPSB-7 battalion commander Superintendent Clifford Gairanod said being assigned to provide route security was way different for him and his troops who were mostly exposed to combats and calamities.

Gairanod said that since he assumed as battalion commander of RPSB–7, it has been a multi-colored experience for him as they responded to the 2013 elections, Zamboanga siege, 7.2-magnitude quake in Bohol and Cebu, typhoon Yolanda that battered the Visayas region, and several other typhoons last year.

He said it was their first time securing a pope and it has been the most memorable and challenging experience for them. He further considered it as a blessing for the organization.

“We are very honored to have that opportunity. We have been part of the history,” he said.

Gairanod personally claimed he felt rejuvenated after Pope Francis and his entourage passed by with the entire crowd cheering and crying.

“Malipayon kaayo mi nga nakakita niya. Feel nimo nga blessed kaayo ka. Lahi ang feeling. Mawala ang imong mga problema,” he said, adding that even the heart of the strongest soldier would be softened with the presence and sight of the Pope.

The Police Regional Office – 7 has awarded the troops of RPBS-7 and all other members of the security force during the papal visit with a Medalya ng Papuri last Sunday.  — (FREEMAN)