Army hopes ‘Descendants’ stars spread good word
We are a very young country, it’s just a matter of giving the youth opportunities to help their selves flourish and be inspired by the Armed Forces, by the military, by discipline and their dedication
The Commanding General of the Philippine Army (PA) Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto has encouraged the stars of the upcoming GMA-7 adaptation of the hit Korean drama series “Descendants of the Sun” to help them encourage the youth to serve the country through their upcoming show.
Alberto made the call during the courtesy call by actors Dingdong Dantes, Jasmine Curtis Smith and Rocco Nacino.
In the meeting, Alberto expressed confidence that the show will highlight the Army’s version of patriotism.
“Military training is not all about war. It also includes responding to disasters that civilians may find useful, including the youth,” Alberto said, as he recalled the recent training which most of the actors underwent with members of the Special Forces Regiment.
“That’s why we must encourage our youth to take up ROTC or whatever positive training they can take part in,” he added.
Curtis, who will be playing the role of a doctor, said she wants to make sure that she will be able to convey to the people the importance of life support skills and that even civilians could be of aid to save lives.
She also wanted the youth to see every opportunity in helping the country.
“I hope that they can see the importance of the role of the Army and they will be inspired to join because it is such an important part of our nation to have a strong army,” Curtis said.
On the other hand, Dantes highly appreciated the military training they underwent, as well as their exchanges of communication with the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ senior leaders that helped them prepare for the portrayal of their respective characters.
“When they talk about dedication to the flag, it goes beyond any political regime, any boundaries. It cuts across religion, it cuts across gender. Service to our people is all-encompassing and you need a certain level of sacrifice to do that and that is what our soldiers give,” Dantes said.
“It’s not all about war. It’s protecting the peace and reaching our communities. We are a very young country, it’s just a matter of giving them [the youth] opportunities to help their selves flourish and be inspired by the Armed Forces, by the military, by discipline and their dedication.” he added. Nacino, who extended his gratitude to the Filipino soldiers, also shared that doing his role has “a different sense of responsibility” to be portrayed and to be pulled-off. Army Spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said they are thankful to the artists who use their talent and influence to highlight the sacrifices of soldiers in serving the country.
“We hope that their show will carry the message that will create the spark for all Filipino youth to contribute in nation-building,” he said.