Ginoong Batas-Militar✍️
Romeo Brawner Jr.🤔
...You may know him as the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines—frequently seen in interviews and national news, leading the country’s defense.
...But I knew him long before the headlines.
Before the accolades, cameras, and rank, he was simply “Sir Brawner”—or “Omet,” as those close to him fondly called him—my computer teacher in high school at formerly known as St. Anne Academy(now St. Mary's) in Santa Ana, Manila. He also once led the military division at Camp Crame, where my nephew served.
Nearly 30 years later, seeing him again—this time on television—fills me with pride. My former teacher is now a national figure. And every time his face flashes across the screen, I smile and say, “Teacher ko 'yan!” And I know my classmates from St. Anne feels the same way.
Sometimes, the most remarkable stories aren’t written in history books—they’re lived by people who once stood quietly in our classrooms.
One evening at home, while we were watching an interview with Sir Brawner on 24 Oras, my husband turned to our children and said, “Mga anak, teacher 'yan ni Mama!” Though my hubby never met Sir Brawner, he shared in the pride. That moment made me realize just how far the influence of a noble man can reach—even to those who never knew him personally.
Sir Brawner’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. And as his former student, I felt deeply honored to have crossed paths with someone who would later rise to one of the country’s most respected positions.
As a teacher, Sir Brawner was soft-spoken, kind, and approachable—always quick to smile, even at our teenage jokes. My nephew, who served under his command at Camp Crame, described him with the same words: genuine kindness, quiet strength, and unshakable integrity.
“A good name is more desirable than great riches.”
— Proverbs 22:1
So what brought Sir Brawner to this place of honor?
....More than medals, academic achievements, prestigious degrees, or intelligence—it was his character. The kind lived out daily, even when no one was watching. His quiet integrity, humility, and unwavering goodness are what gave him true dignity and a lasting legacy.
People of noble character leave a lasting mark, even on those who only knew them for a season. That’s why Sir Brawner is admired not just by those close to him, but also by many who’ve never met him at all—like my husband, who, whenever he sees Sir Brawner on TV, never gets tired exclaiming to my children, “Teacher yan ni mama!”
I do believe that It’s one's inner life, the ones within them that gives them a good name and worthy of respect.
A good reputation, earned through integrity and righteousness, is priceless. It can’t be bought, stolen, or fabricated—it is lived.
“Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.”
— Proverbs 22:1
Seeing Sir Brawner today—as the AFP Chief of Staff—fills me with deep gratitude. It’s humbling to have once been a student of someone who would go on to lead our country with such strength and honor. He may no longer remember me—and that’s perfectly okay. But I will always remember him.
And there’s one truth that brings me immeasurable peace and comfort: even if the world forgets me, God never will.
Someone far greater—the Highest Commander of all, the One who created Sir Brawner—knows me deeply and I know HIM. Why? Because He also made me exist--my Heavenly Father.
He knows the number of hairs on my head. He knows every fiber of my being. Long before I was born, He knew me. Not only does He know me—He has adopted me as His child and promised never to leave me.
He knows my thoughts, dreams, joys, and fears. He understands my heart—its hopes and struggles, its highs and lows. He watches over me when I sit and when I rise, when I come and when I go.
His presence surrounds me, bringing peace and protection—even in a world full of uncertainty.
...That’s where my deepest comfort lies.
“Let not the wise boast of their wisdom,
or the strong boast of their strength,
or the rich boast of their riches,
but let the one who boasts boast about this:
that they have the understanding to know Me,
that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness,
justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight,” declares the Lord.
— Jeremiah 9:23–24
We may have connections to people in high positions whether through family ties, friendship or acquaintance—: such as presidents, public officials, or celebrities but no human title can guarantee lifelong help or protection. Every person’s strength and influence have limits.
Only a personal relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ, can meet our deepest needs. Only Jesus is completely trustworthy. Not only does He hold eternity in His hands—He also knows us perfectly and loves us unconditionally.
..And that is more than enough.
His presence is everything. When you walk with Him, you are never truly alone.
So even if you know someone high on the social ladder, remember this: they cannot grant you perfect protection and a lasting worth. Your true value doesn’t come from who you know here on earth—it comes from knowing the One who owns heaven.
If you know Jesus—if you have placed your trust in Him—you already have the greatest connection of all.
It’s not temporary or limited like human relationships.
It’s eternal, unshakable, and limitless.
So yes—Sir Brawner is my teacher.
But the Highest Commander is my Father.
And who am I? I am HIS child ☝️
🙏 Has someone inspired you deeply?
Thank God for the people who helped shape your journey—but always remember: your true identity and hope is found in CHRIST ALONE🙏
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