Mawab, Davao de Oro — In a powerful display of courage, skill, and determination, the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry (Agila) Division officially launched the 2nd Female Agila Patrol (AGPAT) Challenge on June 23, 2025, at the 10th Division Training School. This milestone event not only highlights the growing presence of women in military service, but also challenges the long-held notion that soldiering is a man’s domain.
Twelve all-female infantry squads from the division’s organic and operational control (OpCon) units are currently engaged in a six-day intensive test of grit, tactical skill, and battlefield readiness. These women are competing across a broad spectrum of combat and operational tasks—traditionally dominated by men—including Operations Order (OPORD) briefing, river crossing, IED detection, call for fire procedures, tactical combat casualty care (TC3), signal communication, reconnaissance, raid tactics, close quarters battle (CQB), handling prisoners of war (POW), and marksmanship.
More than just a competition, the AGPAT Challenge is a bold affirmation that women can—and do—excel in the most demanding aspects of military life.
“This event is a testament to our commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and operational readiness,” said Colonel Arvin Tenorio, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G3) of the 10ID. “Our female Agila soldiers are not only capable, they are vital contributors to the mission success of our units.”
A Rising Force in Uniform
The growing number of women entering the ranks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly in combat roles, marks a significant cultural shift in what was once an overwhelmingly male-dominated profession. Women are no longer confined to administrative, medical, or support roles—they are now frontline warriors, tactical leaders, and operational experts.
The AGPAT Challenge demonstrates that gender is not a limitation, but a strength. The agility, precision, and resilience of the female Agila troops reflect the evolving dynamics of modern military organizations where diversity enhances capability.
Breaking the Stigma
Historically, military service was viewed as a male-only pursuit, often associated with physical strength, aggression, and the burdens of war. For decades, women in uniform had to fight not only the enemy but also the bias that questioned their presence in combat boots.
But events like AGPAT are actively reshaping public perception and institutional culture. They send a clear message: women are just as capable of carrying rifles, making split-second battlefield decisions, and standing their ground under fire.
A Model for the Nation
The 10ID’s initiative sets an example for other divisions and branches of the military, encouraging them to invest in training, mentoring, and empowering female personnel. It also reflects the Armed Forces’ alignment with broader global trends that recognize the importance of gender inclusion in defense and security.
The female soldiers competing in AGPAT are not just participants in a military challenge—they are trailblazers, role models, and symbols of a progressive, inclusive Philippine Army.
As these brave women march, crawl, shoot, and strategize their way through this grueling competition, they are also charting a new path for future generations of Filipinas who dream of serving their country in uniform—on equal footing with their male counterparts.
In the Philippine Army today, strength is no longer defined by gender—but by courage, discipline, and the will to serve.