INSIDE CADET CORPS
"The Chairman
Honor Committee"
" I am a Cadet, my word is my bond, I will uphold the Honor Code and Honor System; all the time and at any cost."
The Story of my Life
-Paulo
"The Grim Struggle of Winning Supremacy over oneself"
"Cadetship is but a grim struggle of winning supremacy over oneself," was the most frequent plebe knowledge that I heard the moment I was admitted to the academy. At first, it was just a mere couple of words that our upperclassmen made us recite repeatedly every time we were in the phase of hurdles. But as I went through the bittersweet journey of cadetship, I was able to internalize the facade between these 12 words of motivation that made me surpass and survive amidst the wavering hardships of my chosen path. I am Police Cadet Justin Paul Saltin Ducay; but before I was able to attain this prestigious rank before my name, I was once just a dreamer—a bald-headed, rattled, and ignorant plebe who trembles in every presence of an upperclassman. Just like most people who dream of having a successful life, my substantial reason for grabbing the opportunity to enter the Academy is to pursue my father's dream (frustrated police officer) while equipping myself with the skills necessary in the field of law enforcement. Moreover, it is within my utmost sincerity and passion to serve my country and ensure the safety of its people. As I commenced my expedition towards the road less traveled, I brought with me my expectations about the Academy and the quality of life it has to offer.   The Academy has a unique way of disciplining and raising cadets, marking a huge distinction between cadets and civilians. I never knew I could fit into the exacting lifestyle of a cadet, but that’s just how cadetship works: surprising oneself that one can actually do the things we never thought you were capable of. From waking up extra early to jog countless rounds around the battalion area, fighting doziness during academic instruction, and transitioning into the unending field drills and parades. A fully packed, hectic schedule, and rigorous training are what we face every day, all while striving to maintain the values, character, and cadet deportment, that a cadet should possess. In line with this, the cadet corps has its bible-the cadet guide, also known as ‘The Maroon and Gold Book’. It comprises various provisions and policies that guide the cadets towards proper deportment and the formulation of committees and special policies to address serious issues and concerns in the cadet corps. One of these committees is the Honor Committee, a highly respected organization in the corps that handles cases regarding the matter of honor code violations with its four tenets: lying, cheating, stealing and tolerating. In our household, my parents instilled values and character that molded us into fine individuals, they specifically emphasized valuing honesty and integrity and how we integrate them into our daily endeavors. It is with great pride and honor that I was able to aspire and was appointed as the chairman of the committee.   The treasure in my expedition is already fast approaching. Graduation is now only weeks away. My 4-year journey in the Academy made me realize that the biggest enemy in one’s cadetship is one’s self. It’s not the upperclassmen who keep on bawling out their underclass to correct their infractions, it's not the tactical officers who caution and guide the cadets; it's our own selves and mindset that hinder us from pushing our limits. At the end of the day, no matter what obstacles and barricades hinder you or stop you from reaching your dream, it is your call whether or not to pursue the path you are taking or succumb to the challenges that await you.
Justin Paul, often known as "Paulo," is a proud Igorot Nga Nataraki who was born and reared in the rugged mountains of Cordillera Region. He is the fifth child of Ama Joey and Ina Junita. Knowing that he and his mother were left in the province while all of his siblings were in the city for their studies and jobs, he was quite at ease despite always doing the domestic tasks. After 16 years, he graduated from Junior High School in 2016 and was awarded a medal and certificate of honor from Guinzadan National High School.
After graduating, he set a goal for himself to enroll at the University of the Cordilleras Senior High, one of the best universities in the country that offers K-12 Program. He ultimately enrolled in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Strand. As background, their class is the Department of Education's inaugural intake for the K–12 program, which adds two more years of study for a junior high school graduates, in order to prepare them for their tertiary level of education. Having previously attended a provincial school, he acclimated to the new learning environment. Academic rivalry increased, which was fascinating, but he still considered it as a challenge to study even harder.
​ In his last year here at the Academy, Paulo extends his gratefulness for having the best family. Family is the cornerstone of his life. It is the foundation upon which he builds his identity, values, and beliefs. His family is where he first finds love, support, and encouragement. It is where he feels safe and secure, knowing that he is always surrounded by people who care for him and have his best interests at heart. A family is a unique bond that transcends all other relationships. It is a bond that is forged through shared experiences, memories, and challenges. It is a bond that lasts a lifetime, no matter what life may bring. It is a bond that is strengthened by love, patience, and comprehension.Growing up, his family was always there for him, through thick and thin. They provided him guidance, support, love, and helped him become the person who today.
​
​
He is incredibly appreciative of their consistent encouragement and support, as well as the sacrifices they made to make sure he had the finest life possible. The sense of belonging he experiences in his family is among his favorite aspects of them. Justin always feels that he is a part of a wider group that has his back, no matter where he goes or what he does. He has the self-assurance to take chances, go for his goals, and deal with adversities in life with grace and tenacity which he truly admires. Despite facing numerous obstacles and hardships, they have always remained strong and steadfast.They have
demonstrated to him the importance of perseverance and the power of the human spirit.
In conclusion, a family is one of life's greatest blessings. It gives us an unmatched sensation of love, support, and belonging. It is a connection that is bolstered by common struggles, memories, and experiences. He sincerely appreciates his family and the beneficial influence they have made on his life. They have a particular place in his heart forever.
“Family is not an important thing. It's everything.” – Michael J.
Education
2019-Present
Philippine National Police Academy
Out of more than 23,000 aspiring Cadets, I was one of the luckiest who became part of the PNPA BSPS Class of 2023. Today, I am a graduating Cadet of this prestigious leadership institution and ready to serve and protect the public.
2015-2017
University of the Cordilleras
As part of the pioneering batch of the K-12 Program, I enrolled myself at the University of the Cordilleras. I had experienced educational culture shock, and coming from a provincial high school and transferring to the city, makes me more submissive in my new educational environment. After 2 years, I finished Senior High School and again was one of the many students who grabbed a medal of excellence award.
Taking it positively, I again challenged myself to enroll for a college degree, and made it to the Civil Engineering Department.
2012-2016
Guinzadan National High School
I continued my studies in my hometown Bauko, I finished my secondary education at Guinzadan National High School. Alas!, I received again an honor excellence award.
2006-2012
Guinzadan Elementary School
I started my education career at Guinzadan Elementary School and graduated as one of the youngest honor excellence awardees.