The Corrections National Training Institute (CNTI) successfully conducted the Recognition Rites for the 130 members of Class 2024-03 “MASID-LAKAS” of the Custodial Officers Basic Recruit Course (COBRC) on 24 July 2025, at the CNTI Parade Ground, New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation, Muntinlupa City. The ceremony pushed through despite the intermittent rainfall, symbolizing the unwavering discipline and resilience of the trainees, who marched with pride and purpose.
The class, composed of 50 female and 80 male trainees, was recognized in a formal event that commenced with the arrival of the Guest of Honor and Speaker, C/SUPT MICHAEL M MARTIN, Deputy Director of the Directorate for Security and Operations. He was joined by key officials including C/CSUPT CELSO S BRAVO, Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Director General for Reformation, and C/SUPT LUCIO C GUEVARRA, Acting Director of CNTI.
Also in attendance were C/SINSP ALLAN A ROSALES, Deputy Director and Commandant of CNTI; CSO3 Quirico A Aligaga, Deputy Commandant; CTSO3 Christian D Cruz, Chief of Academic Affairs; and CTSO2 Henry Bagaoisan, Chief of the Admin Division. The ceremony was further supported by Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) from BuCor and CNTI’s Admin and Applied Training Divisions, led by CO3 Cruzado Alindayo, Chief Tactics, alongside Drill Instructors, Tactical NCOs, and Tactical Nurses.
In his keynote address, C/SUPT MARTIN imparted three key messages to the trainees. He urged them to carry these guiding principles throughout their training. First, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the lectures, highlighting that every lesson is designed to develop their competence and prepare them for the demanding responsibilities of a Corrections Officer. Second, he encouraged the trainees to respect the process, reminding them that each stage of training plays an important role in shaping their character, resilience, and professionalism. Lastly, he urged them to embrace discipline as a way of life essential to their success in the service.
The program was marked by solemn and symbolic traditions, beginning with the Entry of Troops, the Singing of the National Anthem, and a heartfelt Invocation led by Father Jess Los Bañez. This was followed by Welcome Remarks from CSO3 Aligaga, who emphasized the values of commitment and integrity that the class had embodied throughout their training.
C/SINSP ROSALES led the Manual of Arms and Presentation of Recognition, a powerful display of precision and respect and the formal Declaration of Recognition was delivered by C/SUPT GUEVARRA.
A particularly heartfelt moment during the program was when parents, loved ones, and relatives were given ten minutes to approach and embrace the trainees, an emotional tribute to the sacrifices made by both the officers and their families. The event concluded with a Pass in Review by the recognized COBRC Class 2024-03 “MASID-LAKAS,” whose Recognition Rites proceeded with pride and discipline despite unfavourable weather conditions.
CO1 Jimmy K Calpo
Contributor
