Mission Ready: How to Join the Philippine Army and Become a Soldier or Officer — The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

By LTC Amadeo L. Saturnino II (Ret), LPT, MPA
Founder, Reservist Success Academy (RSA)

Introduction: Answering the Call to Serve the Nation

Every Filipino who dreams of joining the Philippine Army shares one thing in common — a deep sense of duty and patriotism.

But while the dream is clear, the path often feels uncertain.
How do you start your application?
What are the qualifications?
How do you prepare for the AFPSAT and Army training?

That’s why I created MISSION READY: The Complete Step-by-Step Roadmap to Becoming a Soldier or Officer in the Philippine Army — a practical, experience-based guide designed to help you prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for your military journey.

Get your copy here: https://amadzsaturn.com/mission-ready

Step 1: Understanding the Mission — Your Why Behind the Uniform

Before you even submit your requirements, you must first understand why you want to serve.
Your purpose becomes your strength when training gets tough.

In the Army, discipline is not punishment — it’s preparation.
Knowing your “why” keeps you focused when your body and mind are tested.

Step 2: The Official Recruitment Process

Here’s a simplified version of the Philippine Army recruitment process as detailed in Mission Ready:

1. Choose Your Entry Path: Candidate Soldier, Officer Candidate Course (OCC), or Reservist
2. Prepare Your Documents: Birth certificate, transcript of records, valid IDs, etc.
3. Take the AFPSAT: The Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test
4. Undergo Medical and Physical Exams
5. Pass the Interview and Psychological Screening
6. Begin Training — this is where your real transformation begins

Pro Tip: Prepare early. Know the requirements and build your fitness and mindset before you apply.

Step 3: Build a Soldier’s Mindset

Every battle is won twice — first in the mind, then in the field.

Mental toughness comes from discipline, routine, and focus.
In Mission Ready, you’ll learn how to think like a soldier — calm under pressure, consistent even without motivation, and ready for any challenge.

Step 4: Train Your Body for Army Fitness

The Physical Fitness Test (PFT) includes:

• Push-ups
• Sit-ups
• 3.2 km run

But it’s not just about strength — it’s about endurance and consistency.

The Mission Ready 21-Day Fitness Challenge helps you start small, stay consistent, and build real readiness from home — no gym required.

Step 5: Pass the AFPSAT and Screening Exams

Many applicants fail not because they’re unfit, but because they’re unprepared.

Mission Ready provides tactical study methods for the AFPSAT — focusing on verbal, numerical, and abstract reasoning.

“Don’t just memorize — simulate the test.”

Short, daily study sessions work better than cramming.
Train your focus, not just your memory.

Step 6: Confidence Under Fire — The Interview & Psych Test

During your interview and psychological exam, officers assess your character, honesty, and calmness.

Confidence isn’t about being loud — it’s about being grounded, respectful, and consistent.

“The officers aren’t looking for perfect answers — they’re looking for authentic answers.”

Step 7: Leadership and Brotherhood

Being a soldier means being part of something bigger than yourself.

Leadership starts with service, and brotherhood means no one gets left behind.

Mission Ready teaches the 3Rs of Leadership:
Respect. Responsibility. Resilience.

Step 8: The Crucible — Surviving the Training

Training is your test of endurance, pain, and perseverance.
Pain has purpose. Hardship shapes character.

The “One More” mindset — one more rep, one more step, one more try — separates soldiers from quitters.

Step 9: Living the Legacy — Beyond the Uniform

A soldier’s oath doesn’t end after service.

True warriors carry their discipline into civilian life — as fathers, teachers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

Service. Honor. Discipline.
These are values that last a lifetime.

Step 10: Join the Reservist Success Academy (RSA)

The Reservist Success Academy (RSA) is a mentorship platform I built for aspiring reservists and officers.

Here, you’ll receive ongoing training, guidance, and community support to stay disciplined, confident, and Mission Ready.

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://amadzsaturn.com
Follow: @ReservistSuccessAcademy

Final Words: Your Mission Begins Today

Every great soldier once stood where you are now — uncertain but determined.
Don’t wait for perfect timing. Prepare now.

Because heroes aren’t born —
They are trained, tested, and transformed.

Get your copy of the Mission Ready eBook today:
https://amadzsaturn.com/mission-ready