Every morning at Far Eastern University (FEU), security guards greet students and staff with a smile, as their white uniforms reflect a sense of calm and order. Yet beyond their friendly demeanor lies a job defined by early hours, unseen sacrifices, and challenges that demand quiet strength.  

Their day begins long before the campus comes alive. By 5:30 a.m., the guards assemble for their daily briefing, preparing for another demanding day of vigilance. 

With five months of service at FEU, Alias ‘XA’ gave us a glimpse into how their mornings are structured in an interview with FEU Advocate.

“Pagpasok, ma’am, bihis tapos formation araw-araw before six [ng umaga]. Magbe-briefing kami niyan kung ano meron sa school, tapos kaunting discussion lang (Upon arriving, ma’am, we change into our uniforms and attend the daily formation before 6 a.m. During this time, we have a briefing about the day’s activities, followed by a short discussion),” the guard shared. 

Following the briefing, the guards take on specific tasks aimed at maintaining campus safety and order. For Alias ‘Jo,’ this includes inspecting safety equipment and ensuring that all systems function effectively.

“Bale ang routine ko lang is mag-check sa elevator intercoms kung gumagana lahat, tapos pagmo-monitor ng [mga] student—lahat para sa safety (My routine mainly involves checking elevator intercoms to ensure they work and monitoring students—all for safety),” they explained.

Beyond their physical tasks, the guards also play a vital role in fostering a welcoming atmosphere. 

Alias ‘O’ explained that being approachable is an important part of their job because it helps build trust and good communication on campus. They shared that being friendly and easy to talk to makes it easier for students and others to ask for help or share their concerns. 

“Kailangan approachable kami sa mga student ‘tsaka kung sino man nakakausap namin (We need to be approachable to students and anyone we interact with),” they expressed.

This demeanor allows them to build connections and provide assistance, no matter how hectic the day may get.  

Despite their efforts to remain calm and kind, guards often face tense encounters. Whether appeasing frustrated parents or helping overwhelmed students, they must handle these situations with patience and professionalism.

‘O’ described how they approach such moments by emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure and professionalism, especially when dealing with challenging situations.

“Dapat mabait kami, minsan may makakasalamuha kaming galit, ‘di naman namin sasabayan ‘yung galit, mananatili pa rin kaming mapagkumbaba (We have to be kind, even when we encounter someone who is angry. We don’t respond with anger and remain humble),” they shared.   

Like any other job, being in this field also requires sacrifices and dedication to thrive. Jo, who moved to Manila for work, shared their struggles with living expenses and the daily challenges of commuting—grappling with cramped spaces and discomfort that tests their perseverance every day.

 “Mahirap nga lang po kasi mag-uwian kasi malayo, so umuupa po ako. Ang hirap kasi ang sikip, hindi ka kumportable (It’s hard to commute because it’s far, so I rent a cramped place. It’s uncomfortable),” they shared. 

The guard also revealed that because of the distance, it was one of the hardest parts of their job to miss important family milestones.

 “Ang pinakamahirap sa trabaho namin ay ‘yung mga special na araw na hindi kami nakakasama pero kailangan ko magtrabaho para sa kanila (The hardest part of this job is missing special occasions but I need to work for them),” they revealed.

Beyond this, the security personnel shared how exhausting long shifts and unpredictable situations can be, often requiring them to stay alert and composed even during emotionally and physically challenging moments. Despite these difficulties, their commitment to ensuring safety and order keeps them going.

This unwavering dedication becomes even more apparent during extreme weather conditions. When typhoons strike, guards stay on campus around the clock, prioritizing the safety of students and staff while risking their own.

‘O’ shared that they receive hazard pay during crises like storms, which serves as a token of appreciation of the risks they face. 

 “Yes, ma’am, hazard pay tapos lalo na nung sunod-sunod ‘yung [mga] bagyo, nagdu-duty kami dito, andito lang kami 24/7 (Yes, ma’am, we receive hazard pay, especially when the storms were frequent. We’re on duty here 24/7),” they shared.   

Despite the hardships, moments of appreciation make their sacrifices worthwhile. 

For ‘O,’ the most rewarding part of their job is being able to help others. They shared that assisting people and fulfilling their responsibilities brings them the greatest sense of satisfaction.

 “Pinakagusto kong ginagawa, eh, ‘yung makatulong, then gagawin ko ‘yung tungkulin ko (What I like the most is being able to help and doing my duties),” the guard expressed.

For many guards, it’s the small, unexpected moments of gratitude that bring them the most joy. Security ‘XA’ recalled a time when a student approached them with a heartfelt thank-you. 

“Isang estudyante lumapit sa akin at nagpasalamat kasi natulungan ko daw siya no’ng late siya sa exam niya. Sobrang nakakataba ng puso ‘yung gano’n (A student came up to me and thanked me for helping them when they were late for their exam. Moments like that warm my heart),” they shared.

But aside from these moments of appreciation, there's something else that has become an unforgettable rite of passage for every FEU student—the unmistakable poke of the inspection stick. That quick prod, a signature move during bag checks, is a familiar part of campus life. It's not just about keeping everything in order; it's a subtle reminder that the guards are always vigilant, making sure everyone’s safe and sound.

As the day winds down, the guards remain at their posts, their presence ensuring the safety and order of the campus. Behind their composed exteriors are numerous sacrifices that often go unspoken—enduring homesickness, braving typhoons, and dealing with difficult situations—all handled with humility and resolve.  

Their stories are a reminder that the heart of the University isn’t just in its classrooms, academic achievements, or grand events but also in the people who work quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes. From ensuring smooth day-to-day operations to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment, these individuals are the backbone of the campus. The next time you pass through those gates, take a moment to look beyond the white uniforms. A simple gesture, like a smile or a friendly greeting, can go a long way in acknowledging their presence and efforts.

- Franzine Aaliyah B. Hicana
(Photo by Zedrich Xylak Madrid/FEU Advocate)