As the nation commemorates National Heroes’ Day, attention has turned to the health and fitness initiatives that support the well-being of our police and military personnel. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently reported that 39.7% of Filipinos lead sedentary lifestyles, a trend that poses significant health risks. In response, various branches of the Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to ensure that those who serve the country are physically prepared for the demands of their duties.
From Screen to Service: JC de Vera Joins the Navy Reserves
Actor JC de Vera, known for portraying military roles on screen, has taken his commitment a step further by joining the Navy reserves. His involvement highlights a growing trend where civilians, including many who joined during the pandemic, enlist as reserves in the Navy, Army, or Air Force. While some are motivated by a desire to serve the nation, others see it as an opportunity to improve their physical fitness outside the confines of their homes.
Fitness Standards Across the Armed Forces
Each branch of the military has developed rigorous fitness regimens to ensure that personnel are combat-ready. The Philippine Army’s Warrior Fitness (PAWF) Test, for example, includes seven events performed in sequence, such as the Leg Tuck, Modified Push-Ups, 100-meter Sprint and Drop, and the One-Mile Run. These exercises are designed to test strength, endurance, and agility.
The Philippine Navy also sets stringent physical requirements. Men are required to complete 20 to 22 push-ups per minute, while women must do 11 to 13, with performance expectations varying by age group. Additionally, men must run 3.2 kilometers in under 20 minutes, and women in under 22 minutes, with younger participants expected to perform even faster. Sit-up requirements are similarly demanding, with men needing to complete 24 per minute and women 17 per minute.
The Philippine Air Force evaluates fitness through three key events: push-ups, sit-ups, and a 3.2-kilometer run. Men are expected to perform 30 push-ups in two minutes, while women should do 11, with allowances made for age. The sit-up requirement stands at 36 for men and 23 for women within the same timeframe, and the run must be completed in less than 20 minutes for men and slightly more for women.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) employs a physical agility test that includes abdominal crunches, push-ups, and a run to assess coordination, strength, and speed.
Generika Drugstore’s Support for Uniformed Personnel
In recognition of the sacrifices made by uniformed personnel, Generika Drugstore has launched a discount program that provides additional health perks to members of the Armed Forces, the PNP, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Starting August 6, over 500,000 active employees across these agencies can avail of a 5% discount on all generic medicines at Generika Drugstore branches nationwide. The program will run until February 28, 2025.
Gino Guinto, Chief Commercial Officer of Generika Drugstore, emphasized the importance of supporting the health and well-being of those who serve the nation. “Even valor needs relief. This is our way of taking care of the people who take care of us, recognizing the invaluable sacrifices they make every day in the line of duty,” Guinto said.
The discount is part of Ayala Corporation’s broader “Saludo sa Serbisyo” program, which began in 2016. This initiative also offers housing assistance, financial education, livelihood training, and scholarships for the dependents of uniformed personnel. BFP Deputy Chief for Operation, FSCUPT Wilberto Rico Neil Kwan Tiu, praised the program as a unique and meaningful gesture of appreciation from the private sector.
Brig. Gen. Danilo Benavides, Deputy Commander of the Philippine Army’s Training and Doctrine Command, echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the support shown by Ayala Corporation. “It’s really very heartwarming for us that the private sector appreciates our service to the country and that the Ayala Group looks out for our welfare and basic needs,” he said.
As the country honors its heroes, these initiatives underscore the critical role that health and fitness play in maintaining the readiness and morale of the nation’s uniformed personnel. Through continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, the Philippines can ensure that its protectors remain strong and resilient in the face of any challenge.