Understanding the Role of a Member in the Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. (PGBI)

The Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. (PGBI) is more than just an organization; it is an organization that embodies values such as solidarity, loyalty, and mutual support. Each member plays a crucial role in nurturing this brotherhood, contributing to its strength, and ensuring that its core values resonate throughout the community. With rights and responsibilities delineated in the organization’s constitution and bylaws, a PGBI member holds a unique position within the fraternity that extends beyond mere membership.

The Role of a PGBI Member

Engaged Citizen of the Brotherhood – Being a member of PGBI means embodying the spirit of brotherhood, unity, and social responsibility. Members are expected to actively engage in the organization’s affairs, contributing their thoughts and opinions on key issues that affect the community. This engagement is vital, as the collective input of all members shapes the direction and impact of the organization.

Rights of a Member – Every member of the PGBI is entitled to a series of rights that empower them within the organization. These rights ensure that members feel valued and have an avenue to express their voices.

a. Voting Rights – Members possess the right to vote on all matters that pertain to the organization. This democratic process not only encourages active participation but also reinforces the importance of every member’s opinion in guiding the PGBI’s future.

b. Eligibility for Leadership Roles – Members are eligible to occupy elective or appointive offices. This opportunity enables individuals to contribute at a higher level and to take on leadership roles that influence the organization’s operations and direction.

c. Participation in Deliberations – Members have the right to participate in all deliberations and meetings of the organization. This participation fosters an inclusive environment where thoughts and concerns can be voiced freely, ultimately benefiting the whole.

d. Access to Organizational Facilities – Members are entitled to utilize the facilities provided by the organization. This access enhances collaboration and strengthens the bonds between members, as they work together for the common good.

e. Access to Records – Members have the right to examine all records or books of the organization during business hours. This feature fosters transparency and accountability, crucial elements in maintaining trust and strengthening the integrity of the brotherhood.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Member – While members enjoy numerous rights, they also bear significant duties and responsibilities to the organization and fellow members.

a. Compliance with By-Laws – Members are expected to obey and comply with the By-Laws, rules, and regulations promulgated by the organization. This adherence is essential for maintaining order, promoting fairness, and ensuring that the organization operates smoothly.

b. Financial Contributions – Members have a responsibility to pay membership dues and other assessments of the organization. These financial contributions are critical to the sustainability and activities of the PGBI, enabling it to provide services and programs that benefit all members.

c. Active Participation – Attendance and active participation in all chapter meetings and activities are imperative. By engaging in chapter events, members help foster a vibrant and dynamic community, where ideas and support can flow freely.

Markings of Members – A distinctive aspect of membership in the PGBI is the marking or tattooing that every member must undergo. This practice is not for decorative purposes but signifies lifelong and total commitment to the organization and all it stands for. The mark symbolizes both privileges and responsibilities, serving as an identifying mark and discouraging those who may not be ready to give their full acceptance, dedication, or sincerity to the brotherhood.

a) General Markings

General markings are designated by specific colors representing different branches of the organization:

• MG (Mint Green): Represents the MAGIC Group
• B (Blue): Represents the Philippine Army
• A (Air): Represents the Philippine Air Force
• N (Navy): Represents the Philippine Navy
• G (Gold): Represents the Philippine National Police
• M (Maroon): Represents the Marines
• W (White): Represents the Military Police

b) Special Markings

Special markings indicate specific roles or statuses within the organization:

• F: Founder
• SGF/SGM: Supreme God Father/Supreme God Mother
• RMG: Ranking MAGIC Group
• GF/GM: God Father/God Mother

c) Marking Process

All members shall be correspondingly marked by a Certified PGBI Marker. This tattoo is placed in a specific location—between the thumb and the pointing finger of the right hand—using the designated letters mentioned above.

Moreover, the mark includes “GUARDIANS,” the member’s pseudonym, year of admission, and additional initials: “M” for Mindanao, “V” for Visayas, and “L” for Luzon. This tattoo is made permanently on the lateral extremity of the upper right arm just below the shoulder, symbolizing the member’s enduring allegiance to the organization.

Change of Status of Members: In the event of a change of status within the organization, the affected member shall be marked with the appropriate tattoo that aligns with the original mark for all promotions. Notably, promotions to the title of FOUNDER and/or SUPREME GODFATHER (SGF) will receive a mark atop the original mark, highlighting the member’s current status.

Handshake and Embrace – The handshake and embrace within the PGBI signify respect, love, unity, solidarity, and concern for one another. These gestures deepen the organization’s bonds and reinforce the commitment of members to support and uplift each other.

Disregard of Rank, Position, Unit, or Branch of Service – In the PGBI, there are no barriers to open, free, and honest interactions among members. All members, regardless of their ranks, positions, occupations, or branches of service—whether they are government officials, professionals, or military personnel—are collectively recognized simply as GUARDIANS. However, proper decorum is maintained in all organizational activities by acknowledging the positions of Grand Supremo, Supremo (SGF/SGM), RMG, Founder, MG, and Godfather/Godmother.

Oath of Allegiance: Every bona fide organization member must sign an Oath of Allegiance, known as the Panunumpa. This oath reinforces the commitment to the principles and objectives of the brotherhood, further solidifying the member’s dedication.

Code of Conduct: To promote a unified and respectful environment, the National Headquarters of the PGBI has adopted a Unified Code of Conduct for all members. This code will set forth standards of behavior expected from each member, ensuring that professionalism, respect, and brotherhood are maintained.

Additional Rights and Responsibilities – According to Section 8, the organization may also enact additional rights, duties, and responsibilities to achieve its goals. This flexibility allows the PGBI to adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in its mission. It encourages a culture of growth, understanding, and shared commitment among all members.

The Integral Role of a PGBI Member

In summary, being a member of the Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. means holding a position of both privilege and responsibility. Members are the lifeblood of the organization, contributing to its legacy of service, loyalty, and mutual aid. By exercising their rights and fulfilling their responsibilities, members not only enhance their own experience within the brotherhood but also contribute to a larger community dedicated to supporting one another.

Through engagement, advocacy, and a spirit of cooperation, every member plays a vital role in ensuring that the PGBI remains a strong and influential brotherhood, ready to address the challenges facing its members and the wider community. Each member’s unique contributions help to sustain the values that bind the PGBI together, creating a legacy that will benefit generations to come. – GSM