Destined soldier — Getting to know the AFP Public Affairs Chief

Becoming a soldier demands exceptional competence, unwavering endurance, and adaptability, as it epitomizes the most arduous profession rooted in self-sacrifice.

Infused with virtues such as loyalty, honor, integrity, and patriotic selflessness, every soldier stands as the cornerstone of the nation's defense.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is a formidable force, comprising over 150,000 personnel across its principal service units — the Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy — bolstered by a reserve force of over 1.2 million.

The allure of military service in the Philippines grew stronger when former President Rodrigo Duterte threw his weight behind the AFP, delivering on his pledge to boost the salaries of soldiers and law enforcement officers. This commitment materialized through the signing of the Congress Joint Resolution, amending the Base Pay Schedule for Military and Uniformed Personnel in 2017.

As a result, these salary enhancements translated into an average 58.7 percent increase across all MUP ranks, taking effect on 1 January 2018.

Col. Xerxes Trinidad, AFP Public Affairs chief, acknowledged that financial incentives may attract some Filipinos to join the armed forces. However, he emphasized that others are inspired by a genuine desire to serve the public, viewing it as a duty or a calling.

"There's only one thing that has been instilled in me; it's about service. Others may call it a vocation or a calling. But for me, there's a difference when you provide services outside the military organization. The compensation you get here is different—it is more of a fulfillment," he said.

Beyond monetary considerations, Trinidad strives to improve as a military member due to his conviction to assist those in need.

"It's not about military compensation. When you help someone and see the positive impact on their life, the happiness it brings is indescribable."

Trinidad reflected on the early days of his military journey. Despite being the son of a military man, following in his father's footsteps didn't initially occur to him. His childhood aspirations leaned towards becoming a pilot or a civil engineer.

"My father never shared his military experiences with us, and I never envisioned myself in the military. From as early as second grade, I sought to forge my own path. Becoming a soldier was the last thing on my mind," he recalled.

However, fate guided him to become one of the influential figures in the AFP today.

Trinidad, a native Ilocano, was born in Quezon City.

From a young age, Trinidad seldom saw his father, while his mother worked tirelessly to provide for the family. As a result, he and his older brother often stayed with their grandparents in Quezon City, occasionally traveling to the Ilocos region.

Rather than relying on others for money, Trinidad learned to be resourceful, a trait he credits to his independence and street smarts.

During his grade school years, Trinidad spent his free time assisting his godfather in driving a jeep. He would act as a jeep barker and receive compensation for his help.

"I used that as an opportunity to review math. I'd collect fares and give change, and that was my allowance. After the second round, my godfather would drop me off at school," he recalled.

On weekends, he would sell coffee, cigarettes and offer massages to people playing Mahjong near their home. He also seized the opportunity to resell candies and bottled water to jeepney drivers. Alongside his friends, they earned the moniker "Lagatak boys," known as the youngsters of Q-Mart. "Those were the days," Trinidad reminisced.

"At an early age, I tried to be independent because my parents were working. Who would help us without them?" he said.

Trinidad proved himself reliable in household chores and was resourceful throughout high school, balancing part-time work while maintaining scholarship grades.

"I believe that molded me into a survivor. I won't give up," he affirmed. "That's why, when I became a soldier, it's fulfilling to help others, especially when you're in the field and witness the hardships people endure. It all flashes back, and I tell myself I must help these people."

Embracing military role

His college journey began with a quest for scholarships, but fate led him to the Philippine Military Academy, where he found not just an education, but a calling.

What started as a practical choice transformed into a profound commitment, shaping his destiny in ways he never imagined.

Upon graduation, PMAers are ushered into careers as AFP officers, solidifying their commitment to serve.

Trinidad's time at the academy was a tumultuous journey marked by a longing for home and the relentless demands of military training and academics. Yet, he persevered, driven by an unyielding resolve: "Once I start something, I will finish it; that's why I always say: I do not die till death comes."

As he completed his four-year course in 1995, Trinidad reflected, 'I cannot encapsulate it in a single word. It was a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. Nevertheless, I am proud to have exceeded my own expectations.'"

It led him to the heart of service, where he confronted challenges in Mindanao, stood firm with the Philippine Army's 4th Infantry Division, and later mentored future leaders at the PMA.

Returning to the field, he held pivotal roles in the 8th Infantry Division, showcasing unwavering dedication and leadership throughout his military career.

His leadership blossomed as he served as Battalion Executive Officer in the 8ID, combating the New People's Army in the Visayas. He led military operations against NPA guerilla fronts in the Caraga region with the 4ID.

Through these experiences, Trinidad embraced his calling to safeguard his fellow citizens and the nation from security threats, solidifying his purpose in service."

"Learning is a continuing process; the best training could be the experience. I have lots of experience, either bad or good challenges. I have to make the most out of it."

'Challenging but doable'

Trinidad faced the challenge of transitioning into the Philippine Army's spokesperson role, but he remained resolute in his pursuit of professional development.

Before assuming the position at the Office of Army Chief Public Affairs, he held key roles such as assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations, commanding officer of the 36th Infantry Battalion, and executive officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade.

"I was groomed to be in the operations. After my battalion commander position. I think my commanders have seen something in me. That's why they have assigned me in the Civil-Military Operations," he said.

In October, the AFP announced his appointment as the chief of the military's Public Affairs Office, marking a new chapter in his impactful journey."

He embraced the demanding role of being the voice of the military by continually educating himself about the organization's operations, emphasizing the importance of aligning statements with the chain of command, and understanding the complex operational environment, including political and economic factors.

His commitment to comprehensive knowledge and careful consideration exemplifies his dedication to effectively representing the military.

Maybe it's not easy, but when people appreciated the military organization through his role as the AFP PAO chief, he became more enthusiastic about doing better.

"Excellence is not a standard; it is a way of life. In everything you do, if you will do it either, you should excel with it. You don't need a measurement, but do everything you can to ensure you will excel with it. It's more of commitment and your passion," he said.

Having conquered his destined path, Trinidad expressed a profound sense of fulfillment.

"In public service, we must not think about waiting to be compensated. We are here to serve," he said.

When his retirement comes, Trinidad vowed to remain to be the same person he was when someone needed him. "I will continue to help the best that I can."