INSPIRING THE YOUTH. Screen actor and Philippine Army (PA) reservist, 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli, takes a selfie with students of the Basilan State College, on the sidelines of a forum on Tuesday (Sept. 17, 2019). Guidicelli encouraged the attendees of the forum to use their potentials to serve and showcase the beauty of Basilan to counter the negative perception about the island province. (Photo courtesy: Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs)
MANILA -- Screen actor and Philippine Army (PA) reservist, 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli, has urged students of the Basilan State College to be players in the province’s peace and development activities.
During a forum held at the college last Tuesday, Guidicelli also encouraged the estimated 5,000 attendees to use their potentials to serve and showcase the beauty of Basilan to counter the negative perception about the island province, Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said in a statement issued Wednesday.
Guidicelli added that the students would play an important role in promoting Basilan’s tourism that would lead to more opportunities for its development.
He also reminded them to respect their parents, love God and country, persevere to reach their aspirations, and be responsible in exercising their freedom, especially in using social media.
"We need to constantly remind our youth about the value of patriotism and selfless service. We want to give them all the opportunities for growth and development, being our country’s hope for the future,” Zagala said.
The actor's visit to Basilan State College is part of the Army's efforts to promote patriotism among the youth.
Prior to the engagement, Guidicelli and 1st Scout Ranger Regiment commander Brig. Gen. William Gonzales visited the 101st Infantry Brigade in Isabela and the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion in Lamitan, Basilan to boost troop morale. (PNA)
