My 0.2 Cadet Journey
This page will show you my road to becoming Police Cadet Meliton.
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Every success story has its twists and turns, I have experienced a pretty Maalala-Mo-Kaya-like level. My story began in December 1996 when I became the first-born to first-time parents German Meliton and Maria Magdalena Loreto. Since this is my story, let me walk you through the road I chose to take, the problems I have overcome, and the ending of a new beginning.
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I am P/CDT Gerlyn Mae Loreto Meliton, born and raised in the third-class municipality of Bombon, Camarines Sur. It has always been my dream to become a law enforcer.
When did it all start?
I was a Corps Commander of Quipayo National High School year 2013. During my secondary years, I became a victim of bullying. But this did not stop me from pursuing my dream course, which is Criminology.
At an early age, I always knew what I wanted. To lead and become part of the Law Enforcement body in society.
Undergraduate Degree
My undergraduate degree journey has been my appetizer to the bittersweet reality of this life.
In 2016,
I was one of the Outstanding Criminology Students during the 3rd National Criminology Students Congress. I was able to graduate with flying colors earning two achievements of having Latin Honors (Cum Laude) and being awarded at the same time as the Best in Research Paper of the University of Baguio.
In 2017,
I passed the Criminology Licensure Exam. As a dreamer, I always believed that it’s essential to dream. I almost became part of the top 10 National Topnotchers of the Licensure exam. Unfortunately, I fell 0.02 short of the national rating. Nonetheless, this didn’t stop me from aiming for more.
In 2018, I passed the NAPOLCOM Exam held in Legazpi City. Being optimistic as I am, I thought that it would be much easier for me to join the Bureau since I have three (3) eligibility.
Then came my second 0.02. I applied at Camp Simeon Ola, but I fell short of the height requirement of two (2) centimeters. The flame in me became dim, and I started to lose hope. However, as the Ate, I should not stop. I have three younger siblings who are very dear to me, and as the eldest, it is my role to fight for my dreams and their dreams.
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The Department of Social Welfare and Development Iriga hired me as their Social Welfare Assistant. Indeed, it was a different field from what I had thought I would be. I had worked with the Indigenous People of Camarines Sur. I met people who paved my way and supported me on this journey. During my stay, I learned with the Katutubos the importance of simplicity and happiness. I could encounter different stories of people I never knew I would meet in this lifetime. Their smiles have meant so much to me. However, I still feel an emptiness that I cannot fathom.
In 2019,
I applied for Philippine National Police Academy and pursued the road less travel. It was NEVER easy. Good news, I got in! I am happy, sad, anxious, and scared at the same time. I will be leaving my family. I will be meeting people from all walks of life.
THEN CAME COVID
Not only were we restricted, but this was also my most challenging year, when I lost the man I was not so close to but was able to meet and know more about in the later part, my dad. Due to Covid restrictions, I could not see him in his last moments. I thank the Almighty that there’s an angel up there who guides me whenever, wherever.
LOOKING FORWARD…
This journey is an end to the chapter and a chain breaker. As a proud recipient of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), a Bikolana, and a firstborn, may we always remember that no matter what life gives us, it happens for a reason.
My 0.02 journey may have ended, but my 2.0 version is already on its way.