This study was conducted to determine the readiness of Women SAF Troopers as counterparts in addressing insurgency. This is in response to Executive Order Number 70 calling all agencies of the government to end local insurgency, taking the form as evaluation on the part of Women SAF Troopers, if they are indeed to the task at hand. Readiness herein refers to their tactical preparedness or combat dispositions which are manifested in terms of their a) skills; b) training; c) competencies; and d) experience, which are the variables in this study. Two set of respondents were considered in this study- the Women SAF Troopers themselves and their Males SAF counterparts.
This study used descriptive method of research utilizing Focused Group Discussion, Interviews and Survey and Questionnaires, which were treated through statistical tools such as Frequency and Mean. From the focused group discussions and interviews, Women SAF Troopers see their biological differences as no longer a hindrance to obtain the necessary skills, training and competencies to capable members of the Special Action Force. Most field commanders are hesitant to involve Women SAF Troopers in critical combat missions because of socio-cultural reasons. Both respondents perceive Women SAF Troopers as capable in terms of their skills, training and competencies except in experience which is less capable. Women SAF Troopers are perceived as capable counterparts in addressing insurgency.
Recommendations were then forwarded so as to maximize the utilization of the Women SAF Troopers.