• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
A Philippine Army soldier, who lost his eyesight after he was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED), returned to his former unit, the 3rd Infantry Division, sharing lessons from his journey as a wounded warrior who refused to be defined by disability.
“My ability is stronger than my disability. We must focus on what we have, not on what we’ve lost. I may no longer have my sight, but I still have my purpose and my heart for service and that is more than enough to keep moving forward,” Capt. Jerome Jacuba said in his visit to the 3ID headquarters at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on Dec. 15.
Jacuba, known to his colleagues as “Captain Blind”, had served as 3ID enlisted personnel before earning his commission as an Army officer.
In 2016, Jacuba lost his eyesight while conducting combat operations in Maguindanao when an IED detonated near his position.
Despite this life-altering injury, Jacuba continued to serve for several years in various administrative and leadership roles. His unwavering resilience, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to duty have earned him the deep admiration and respect of soldiers across the nation.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the reinstatement and spot promotion of Jacuba to the rank of Major after he was previously forced to retire for losing his sight.
He was reassigned to adaptive duties befitting his 15 years of military experience.
Prior to his reinstatement, Jacuba was earlier placed under a complicated disability discharge due to his injury.
During his visit to the 3ID headquarters, Jacuba encouraged soldiers to remain steadfast in their mission, reminding them that service to the nation is measured not only by physical strength but by character, courage, and heart.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, 3ID commander, praised Jacuba’s courage and for the inspiration he brings to the troopers.
“Captain Jacuba reminds us that the strength of a soldier is not measured by what he has lost, but by what he continues to give. His return to Camp Peralta is a powerful testament to resilience, duty, and love of country,” Samson said. | GB
