The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with over 15,000 women personnel, continues to benefit from their exceptional contributions.
“Many female members of the Philippine Army have brought honor in fields such as academics, sports, administration, and even combat. We have women officers who have been awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star (the second-highest award for combat operations) and the Gold Cross, among others,” said Philippine Army Spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala in an interview with Manila Standard.
According to Dema-ala, all 6,000 women officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Army are deployed across the country, taking on diverse roles. “Even in units deployed in the far-flunged barangays sa field. Diversified na ang assignment ng women in the Army,” he added.
Dema-ala also expressed pride in the growing number of women battalion commanders in both combat and administrative units. Among them is 1Lt. Daisy Jane Constantino, commander of the Army’s 7th Field Artillery “Steel Rain” Battalion, who assumed command in September 2024.
The AFP also celebrated its first female spokesperson, Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, who assumed the role in January 2024 after leading the Army’s 7th Signal Battalion.
In the Philippine Navy, approximately 18% of personnel are women, serving across various operational and administrative units. Navy Spokesperson Capt. John Percie Alcos emphasized their vital contributions, stating that their achievements in leadership, strategy, and management continue to enhance the strength and success of the Philippine Navy in fulfilling its mission.
“Their involvement continues to enhance the strength and success of the Philippine Navy in the achievement of its overall mission,” Alcos said.
One notable figure in the Navy is Commodore Luzviminda Camacho, the first woman to attain the rank of commodore. She previously headed the AFP’s Office of Legislative Affairs in January 2020.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) also made history with 1st Lt. Jul Laiza Mae B. Camposano-Beran, the country’s first-ever female jet fighter pilot. Camposano-Beran qualified to fly the SIAI-Marchetti AS-211 combat aircraft on March 30, 2022, after extensive training in combat and surveillance missions.
She began her solo flights in December 2020, logging over 150 hours on the AS-211. Her rigorous training included Jet Qualification, Fighter Fundamentals, and Combat Crew Training, equipping her for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.
Camposano-Beran also served as a backseat pilot on the FA-50 jet fighter during an actual strike mission.
The accomplishments of these women underscore their vital roles in shaping the future of the Philippine military and their significant contributions to the nation’s defense and progress.