Baseline Study on the Mental Resilience of a Cohort of Military Personnel in the Philippine Army

This study evaluated the baseline level of mental resilience among active military personnel assigned to the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and examined its potential association with socio-demographic characteristics. Utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional research design, primary data were gathered from a purposively sampled cohort of 50 respondents across eight operational and support units. Data collection utilized a structured survey based on the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Statistical analyses included frequency, percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, and the Chi-square Test of Independence. Results indicated an overall positive level of mental resilience among personnel, with an overall weighted mean of 3.84 (SD=0.62, interpreted as "Agree"). Among the assessed dimensions, the Ability to Cope with Stress registered the highest mean score (3.98), whereas Adaptability to Change yielded the lowest (3.65). Inferential testing revealed no statistically significant association between mental resilience levels and socio-demographic variables—namely age, sex, number of years in service, salary grade, or unit location. Based on these findings, an intervention program titled A.L.A.L.A.Y. (Advancing Leadership, Adaptability, and Lifelong Army Yield) was proposed to enhance adaptability, stress management, and emotional regulation across all military ranks.