MANILA – Matteo Guidicelli has finally finished his 30-day Scout Ranger Orientation and Leadership Development Course with PMA Class of 2021 at Camp Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan.
Present during the closing ceremonies on Thursday was the actor’s longtime girlfriend Sarah Geronimo, who arrived at the event with Guidicelli’s parents and siblings.
Aside from finishing the course, Guidicelli received a military commendation medal for his volunteerism initiative in clean up drives in some of the schools in San Miguel, for leading the distribution of school supplies and for being an inspiration to the youth.
Guidicelli also received a special recognition, a letter of commendation and a scout ranger replica for obtaining the highest grade of 95.20% among 97 students in the class.
After accepting all his awards, Guidicelli gave a hug to Geronimo and his parents, who were beaming with pride and joy for this new feat.
Guidicelli, 29, officially joined the Army Reserve Command in mid-April, “because I love my country.”
At the time, he quoted Major Gen. Bernie Langub, commander of ARESCOM, in announcing his move to join the group: “The rank is emplaced near their heart because it means only those who have the heart to serve will be fit to wear the uniform. It is beyond the uniform, it is all about willingness to serve the country and being prepared for any eventuality.”
Guidicelli is said to be the only Army Reservist who asked to be enlisted in the leadership development course, according to Brig. Gen. Wilson Gonzales, commander of 1st Scout Ranger Regiment.
“This started few months ago when he visited us then he asked what is a Scout Ranger… He is really interested and asked if he can join the training,” Gonzales earlier said.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana lauded Guidicelli for his initiative to undergo the training.
“I really commend [his] volunteerism,” Sobejana said. “Iyong pinapakita niya is a manifestation that his sense of patriotism is napakataas.”
Prior to his entry as Army reservist, Guidicelli also joined the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary in March alongside celebrities Erwan Heussaff and Nico Bolzico.