MANILA, Philippines - They are the lifeline of the injured. They hold in their hands the fate of a downed soldier. Their skills determine if the injured would live or die. They are the combat medics.
Just like any soldier in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, these combat medics go through rigorous trainings. Not only do they march through the jungle holding guns, they also need to perform their primary duty as healers. They go by the mantra that anyone injured in the line of fire should get proper care—whether ally or foe.
Ironically, being a combat medic is a double-edged sword. They stand in the frontline during battle as they try to extend the lives of the injured while holding a gun to protect the others. Sadly, it seems that in guerilla warfare, combat medics have no “immunity” as they wear the same uniforms as the rest, identifiable only by a tiny patch on their packs.
Stories of heroism abound, but any combat medic will be quick to say that there are also many tales of grief in the battlefield. I-Witness host Sandra Aguinaldo (photo) goes deep into the jungle to witness the courage and dedication of the combat medics.
Combat Medic airs in I-Witness tonight, after Saksi, on GMA-7.