Tribute to outstanding women in law enforcement and national security

As a woman who loves to celebrate the success of other women, I culminate women’s month by paying tribute to awardees of The Most Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security. Last year, I had both the honor and privilege of being invited to join the Republic Defenders where former ambassador to Indonesia and Republic Defenders chairman and president Vidal Querol assigned me to a screening committee in search of the most outstanding women in law enforcement and national security.

It was both challenging and exciting to go through credentials of women who day in and day out, and practically 24/7, protect communities even while we sleep. Many times we are unaware of what these women do in the service of our motherland. For the very first time and at last, the search took a closer look at recognizing these “bad ass” women in society dedicated to serve and protect our nation.

As a reserve officer, working with the likes of former ambassador Querol helped me realize two things. First is the fact that in the 21st century where women are challenged to answer to both the demands of nurturing their families while “hustling” in their professional lives or in a life of public service, answering to this call has brought about great strength and character of women whose duties include the offering of their own lives in the service of country. We are talking about women who have tirelessly and successfully built ideal police stations, maintained peace and security in vulnerable areas, supplied artillery and ammunition, attacked the enemy as fighter pilots, patrolled our seas, motorcycled their way through chaotic streets, invested heavily in education, led a gallant attack against insurgency,  and yes, safely transported our beloved President so that he can reach the people throughout the regions.

The scope and depth of the responsibilities of these women go beyond the norm and raise the bar when it comes to the real definition of excellence. The second most important learning I’ve had in such a participation was a deeper understanding of a woman’s uniqueness in a world that is changing their outlook on what women can do. I am not a feminist. At most, my opinion of feminism is quite different, I believe that men and women were created with attributes that compliment each other despite their differences. Having said this, Our Republic Defenders chairman and president Vidal Querol, a retired General of the PNP, even in his early days in service always recognized the potential of women given their unique skills. The awarding for The Most Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security which took place last March 11 in Malacañang was attended by the President himself as our guest of honor, guest speaker and as our Commander in Chief. In this momentous occasion, President Duterte awarded these extraordinary women and in all humility, thanked them for their service.

I congratulate the Republic Defenders who worked tirelessly in making this event possible especially at a time where our President is often accused of maligning women in our society. An occasion such as this only proves that there is a special place for women in our President’s heart.

We, the Republic Defenders, extend our deepest gratitude to San Miguel Corp. for not only supporting but believing in such a noble cause. The Most Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security proves just how much the President is faithful in ensuring that women in our society thrive. Congratulations to all the awardees who continue to defend and protect our nation. We offer our sincerest gratitude in behalf of the rest of our countrymen for your loyalty to the motherland. To all the men who continue to help build women up in our society, we too salute you. Last but certainly not least, In behalf of the Republic Defenders, Happy Women’s Month and Happy Birthday President Rodrigo Duterte.