Young Filipinos flock to military

Young Filipinos are having a hard time finding jobs in the global financial crisis.

They are willing to try anything — even join the army — to find stable employment.

As early as 6 a.m., 21-year-old Charmaine Genola left her province of Bicol and made her way to the Philippine Army Recruitment Centre, determined to be among the first to sign up.

Although she recently graduated as a nurse, Charmaine has not been able to find a job in the last six months. She finally decided to try her luck as a soldier.

"We cannot be choosy anymore," she said. "Whatever option there is that we can qualify in, we will take it. Whatever opportunity there is, we will grab it — because it’s very hard to look for a job now. Many Filipinos have no jobs."

The Philippine Army Recruitment Centre said it has seen a huge increase of Filipinos applying as soldiers over the past months. Around 1,000 applicants come here each week with hopes of serving the country.

The Philippine Army needs about 7,000 soldiers this year. Those who pass its rigid exams and military training will be paid $335 a month.

And life as a soldier has suddenly become more attractive, as the global economic slowdown hits home.

Major Homer Simpas, chief of the Philippine Army Recruitment Centre for Luzon, said: "One of the most stable jobs right now is entering the government service and one of these is entering The Philippine Army. We offer a lot of non-wage benefits and perks in the army. We have educational benefits, health care benefits, and opportunities to go on schooling, both local and abroad."

Latest government data showed the country’s unemployment rate has increased to 7.7 per cent. That’s 2.9 million Filipinos who are out of a job.