A policewoman from Bohol has brought honor and pride to the Philippines by winning several medals in international competitions held in Canada and the Netherlands.

PoliceSSgt Maria Caress Arnejo, who is assigned at the Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO), participated in the World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 

She won two gold medals in the 21k half marathon women’s heavy weight category and in karate 35 plus women’s category. 

She also won a silver medal in karate.

Arnejo also competed in the Netherlands, where she won one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal in different events. 

She said that she started competing in July 2023 and finished this August 2023.

She thanked the Filipino communities in Canada who helped her with her accommodation, transportation, and other needs. 

Arnejo thanked the police community in Bohol for their encouragement. 

She also expressed her gratitude to the BPPO and the provincial director Police Colonel Lorenzo Batuan for their support and encouragement.

PEMS Marigay Orapa, who facilitated the interview of Arnejo over DYTR’s Open Forum program, praised her for her positive attitude and dedication. 

Orapa said that Arnejo is an inspiration to other police officers and Filipinos.

Open Forum host Ardy Araneta Batoy, who interviewed Arnejo and Orapa, congratulated Arnejo for her achievements and said that it is a great privilege to be able to go to other countries, compete at international level and represent the country with honor and pride.

Batoy also said Filipino women in police forces are shining beckon of human excellence in sports and public service.