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by CPvt Calvin Ray Chu, 4Cl
Five distinct units, one common purpose -- the Service Support Unit. Consisting of five sub-units, each with its own
tasks, they are all set to do one thing: to provide service to the Corps. Under the command of CCapt Patrick Louie Maglaya,
the Service Support Unit, otherwise known as the SSU, is described as the "backbone of the Corps." In short, the SSU
seeks to aid in the activities of the Corps, and to provide needed services for the completion of the objectives of the Corps
- training day or not.
One of the sub-units is the administrative unit under Cadet CPvt David Pua.
Spending most of their time inside the Corps office, their responsibilities require utmost care and attention. Most often,
the administrative cadets work longer hours than cadets of other units do. They are responsible for providing and processing
the data to be used for the training day. They are also involved in the processing of unit files, proofreading of the cadets’
attendance, and computation as well as the evaluation of grades.
The medics under CSgt Gilbert Acyatan are responsible for providing medical
assistance during the training day. In case of accidents or medical emergencies, the medics are immediately called on to apply
first aid procedures to the injured cadet. To be a medic, one needs to have a background on emergency rescue operation procedures.
This is usually provided for by the PGH (Philippine General Hospital). Alertness and presence of mind are also big factors
in being a medic.
The military police under the supervision of CSgt Mark Dar Santos takes
on the duty of enforcing security and discipline, helping to keep the training day in order. They take post to keep watch
of those entering or leavingthe training ground, keeping track of those coming in late or cutting training. The military police
also assists in the implementation of discipline by enforcing training ground policies like wearing of proper uniform.
Communication is important in carrying out a smooth training day, and the
signal communication (SIGCOM) unit handled by CSgt Paul Vincent Tongsy is responsible for this department. They aid in the
relaying of information or finding the location of a person or unit by means of a two-way radio. With their help, communication
is made faster and more effective. To join the signal communication unit, one needs to have a brief background on radio communication
like call signs and frequencies, and of course, a radio (technically, transceiver).
The Transportation (TRANSPO) unit headed CSgt Jason Inocencio provides for
the transportation needs of the Corps, be it for the cadet officers or equipment and materials needed in training or Corps
activities. Their service is only offered for the Corps uses and not for any cadet officer’s personal need. The requirement
for the Transportation Unit are a car (of course!), a driver’s license (of the cadet), and passing the training for
Transportation Cadet given by the SSU Commander.
The SSU was established solely for the purpose of service and support, as
this is really needed by the Corps. The men of SSU do not undergo the same training of the regular cadets, but their performance
is just as important for the betterment of the Corps. It is not a unit for the lame men, as most cadets think. It is not merely
doing one’s assigned task; rather, it is doing one’s responsibility and doing it well. The success of the unit
is not dependent on one man alone, but rather on the whole unit working together in harmony. Being a part of this unit requires
a cadet’s undying commitment, submission to duty, and a heart for service. Working together not just to be known, but
to be regarded as the best, Cadet Captain Maglaya envisions to be quick and alert in responding to the provision of administrative,
security, communication, and transportation services to the Cadet Corps.
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