Before starting my internship, I was unsure where to go for my On-the-Job Training (OJT) I was more keen to work at a government agency, but I was also considering interning at a law office and other private companies. I emailed several government agencies and other private companies to express my interest in working for them as an intern, but only a few replied. Among those that did, either they do not cater to interns or they have a tedious hiring process, which would not be very convenient for me as I was hoping to start as early as possible. 

Eventually once of the government agencies had called me and asked for me for my interview and it was in AFP Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo and near from school and from where I was living since I am eager to have and start my OJT I came to the AFP Headquarters for my interview and background checking, then they told me to wait for the starting date and so that I can also submit all of the pre-deployment requirements. After a week they called again and instructed me on the day where I can start and after accomplishing the remaining pre-deployment requirements, I officially commenced my On-the-Job Training at Armed Forces of the Philippines Pension and Gratuity Management Center (AFPPGMC) on February 20, 2024.

During my deployment, I learned the value of empathy and compassion at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Pension and Gratuity Management Center. I was reminded of the value of human connection and the positive effects that a nurturing environment can have on someone's life through interacting with the beneficiaries and learning about their experiences.

Additionally, I had the chance to expand my knowledge and skill set by taking advantage of numerous training and professional development opportunities. The Armed Forces of the Philippines Pension and Gratuity Management Center's dedication to lifelong learning created a growth-oriented atmosphere and motivated me to consistently pursue excellence.

I am appreciative of the experiences and knowledge I gained at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Pension and Gratuity Management Center when I think back on my deployment period.

It was a life-changing time that improved not just my professional abilities but also my comprehension of the significance of helping others and changing the world for the better.

I was able to observe firsthand the wide range of duties and responsibilities that professionals who work as Legal Staff Officers at AFP PGMC perform by shadowing Sir Forteza. I now have a thorough understanding of the vital role that legal staff officers play in any organization, especially the AFP, from LSO and onboarding to pensioner relations and performance management.

I also gained a profound understanding of the significance of interpersonal and effective communication skills in the LSO field as a result of this experience. Sir Forteza's capacity to build strong bonds with people, cultivate positive relationships, and handle difficult circumstances with professionalism and empathy was incredibly motivating. 

First and foremost, I give thanks to God for providing me with direction during the entire process of finishing my degree's academic requirements as well as my internship. 

I would like to express my appreciation to Mr. Salirick Andrés for his time and work in his roles as our OJT Coordinator and the College of Arts program chair. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Technological Institute of the Philippines for being my home away from home during my time in college. I will always treasure every memory I have of this prestigious school.

A happy-but-sad conclusion.

The type of journey I wish never to end. I have developed a strong attachment to the training, the coworkers, the lessons I have learned, and other aspects of this amazing journey.

When you consider that you are already working on your post-deployment documents, it was quite satisfying. But trust me, when our Supervisor shook our hands and expressed his gratitude, I started to cry. That was the part that was both the most joyful and heartbreaking.

When you take that first step, you'll learn how to walk it correctly, even though it might be extremely frightening at first. As a student, this adventure greatly aided me and sparked my dreams. As this journey ends I can say that I am proud.