D.P.A. (Straight from the camp)
By Francisco B. Lindero, Jr.

Welcome to 6 th RMG (Part II)

It is but natural for neophyte members of the 6 th RMG to find themselves as strangers in the place of their first assignment. Well, it is presumed that the moment they step on its ground, life will never be the same for them. For this reason, it is necessary that before leaving behind the portals of training centers, the minds of these new police officers must be prepared for the next phase in their career. The training centers do not only give police recruits the leeway to enhance their mental and physical prowess but importantly to condition their minds to remain stable and sane amidst pressures. Nobody desires Kalibo incident to repeat itself.   Nobody desires another Jonathan Moreño in the police service.

The practices at 6 th RMG are not meant to put its new members in a state of “culture shock”. Of course, it is not surprising when some ended up wallowing in the state of shock. After all, everyone differs in terms of coping mechanism. Some of them may be a bit slow in catching up the paces of orientation. But eventually they can make it, though it may take some time.

The recent hazing case at 601 st Mobile Company is a manifestation of how neophyte police officers react differently within the same process of indoctrination. The 18 complainant-police officers are in a way entitled to take drastic measure to appease their grievances. To put it clearly, it was their right to do so. However, how much I wished these young men realized that, in the police service, the exercise of one's right is not always the better choice!

One thing that makes 6 th RMG peculiar is the paradox in its culture. And, in fact, it is the essence that new members can hardly grasp in the early stage of their “transformation”. Yes, assignment at the said unit is given effect through Special Orders. This piece of paper bears the authority that incorporates the new police officers to a unit. But membership is not attached with it. Okey, let me put this way, Special Orders merely provides virtual membership. Why? Because the true-blooded RMG admits that in order one becomes a true KAPAMILYA , he must first be a true KAPUSO .

PUSO (heart) is a symbolism rich in meaning if we talk of “culture” in RMG. It does not only mean as a vital organ without which life is impossible. It is the test of one's readiness to belong in the unit. As I said, pusong mamon has no place in RMG. I don't intend to say one must have a heart of stone to belong. It is enough that one has the heart to withstand the fierce tempests in or out of the camp, home or self. A heart that beats no remorse when under persecution. A heart that pumps no regrets for keeping truth and justice prevail.

The “welcome” being practiced at 6 th RMG is a mirror through which would-be members can see their hearts. As a result, many are proud standing before it and are confident that they deserve to belong. Others have also seen their true colors; they turned their backs… feeling so proud! But, for the latter, I am sorry to say this, “If you only have known better!

For comments, e-mail me at rogatepnp@yahoo.com or send SMS to 09193161190.