𝗔𝗖𝗖 𝗔𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗧𝗖 𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 ₱𝟱𝟬𝗞 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗙𝗣
𝘣𝘺 𝘚𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘭 𝘠𝘢𝘣𝘶𝘵

Abuyog Community College (ACC) held the ceremonial awarding of a ₱50,000 financial grant from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to C/COL Mikaela Faye Amarillo, 1CL, an Advanced ROTC cadet, in recognition of her distinction as Female ROTC Cadet of the Year, today, December 15, 2025, at the Office of the College President.

The awarding was led by College President Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana, CESE, alongside the ACC AFROTC coordinator, SGT Marlon B. Cainong, PAFR.

Amarillo’s recognition traces back to the 29th Founding Anniversary of the 5th Air Reserve Center (5th ARCen) held on October 12, 2024, at Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

In her message during the post-awarding interview, Amarillo reflected on the journey behind her achievement, emphasizing that the recognition symbolizes perseverance rather than accolades.

“This award isn’t just about what I’ve achieved, it’s about what I’ve overcome. Since my first year as a basic cadet, I traded sleepless nights for purpose and missed celebrations for commitment. Giving up was never an option,” Amarillo said.

She credited her resilience to faith and support from the people around her, adding that the scholarship grant represents shared sacrifices and hope.

“This grant isn’t just for me. It’s a tribute to every sacrifice made in the name of hope, a reminder that no matter how dark today feels, tomorrow is always worth saying ‘yes’ to,” she added.

Amarillo also expressed gratitude to General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), acknowledging the opportunity given to her as an Advanced ROTC graduate.

“I am proud to be shaped by the AFP’s unwavering courage. I will continue to honor this legacy, and if given the chance, I will join the Philippine Air Force, all because you believed in me first,” she stated.

Addressing fellow cadets, Amarillo encouraged them to take courage in their beginnings.

“I wasn’t born a leader. I stood where you stand now—a basic cadet who chose to take a chance. If I can do it, so can you,” she said.

The cadet also acknowledged the support of various military units and officials, including the 5th Air Reserve Center, 527th Department of Military Science and Tactics, ACC officials, local government leaders, and her family, whom she credited as vital to her journey.

The ceremony highlighted ACC’s continued support for leadership development, discipline, and service through the ROTC program, reinforcing its role in shaping future public servants and defenders of the nation.