FSI Completes FSO Cadetship Course Batch XXX
The FSO Cadets Batch XXX with DFA Officials.
PASAY CITY 28 October 2024 - The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) completed the Foreign Service Officers Cadetship Course (FSOCC) Batch XXX. Participated in by 16 new Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the six months of intensive training commenced on 15 April 2024 and ended with a Recognition Ceremony on 15 October 2024.
The Cadetship Program is an intensive six-month training designed to equip newly-commissioned FSOs for the diverse demands of diplomatic and consular service. Through lectures, workshops, immersive experiences, and study tours, the program covers key areas such as economic diplomacy, cultural engagement, national security, and the protection of Filipinos abroad. It is mandated by Republic Act No. 7157 for all newly appointed FSOs of DFA.
In his opening remarks, Director General Fernandez acknowledged the efforts of the Carlos P. Romulo School of Diplomacy for implementing and completing the cadetship course. He emphasized the importance of adherence to laws and administrative issuances, reminding the cadets that their primary duty is to uphold these regulations.
“Your life in the Philippine Foreign Service will always be regulated by laws and administrative issuances. It is imperative that you obey these laws and regulations,” he stated. “In an institution steeped in tradition, we must remember that diplomacy requires a life of obedience and compliance, which is crucial in ensuring that the Department of Foreign Affairs accomplishes its mission.”
The keynote inspirational message was delivered by DFA Undersecretary for Administration Antonio Morales, who praised the FSI for its continuous efforts in honing the country’s diplomats. In his message to the FSOCC participants, he said: “The Department is really in dire need of young and new FSO IVs. Your training is not just necessary to be effective and efficient, but you also need to be compassionate and courageous... Be lifelong learners of international diplomacy, defend and advance the international rules-based order, and take pride in the diplomatic and consular work that you will do."
In her welcome remarks, FSI Director for Training Evelyn O. Katigbak expressed her appreciation for the cadets’ dedication. She noted that: “FSI provided interventions through learning modules where there was a lack... hopefully this contributed in their preparation for the work that is awaiting them.”
Representing Batch XXX, Mr. O’myr Faisal Mustafa C. Abdalla delivered the batch response, reflecting on the challenges and growth they experienced during the program: “Today is more than just the culmination of our cadetship—it is a moment to reflect on our journey, our growth, and the path that lies ahead... We are not just foreign service officers. We are stewards of our country’s interests, the voice of peace and cooperation in an increasingly complex world.”
Batch XXX of the FSOCC, known as "Subangan" (meaning the horizon where the sun and moon rise), successfully completed thirteen major courses in diplomacy and governance. They also participated in event management activities and gained valuable hands-on experience through immersive experiences, including deployment to selected Consular Offices of DFA across the country.
The ceremony concluded with the conferral of certificates and heartfelt congratulations to the newest members of the Philippine Foreign Service. END
Director General Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III during his opening remarks.
Undersecretary Antonio A. Morales shared his inspirational message to the FSOCC participants.
Mr. O’myr Faisal Mustafa C. Abdalla, representative of the FSOCC Batch XXX, delivers the batch response.
The FSO Cadets Batch XXX with Director General Francisco Noel R. Fernandez III and Carlos P. Romulo School of Diplomacy Training Officers.