QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — Did you know that there is a full-blooded Filipino in the Swiss Guard or the protective security unit guarding the Pope?
The Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines located in Makati City on Friday shared that 26-year-old Sebastian Eviota is the first full-blooded Filipino to join the Swiss Guard.
He was fondly called as “El Filipino” (The Filipino) by the late Pope Francis.
Eviota is among the members of the elite Swiss Guards, which primarily protects the Pope, the Apostolic Palace, and the Vatican sacred sites.
With the new Pope, Robert Francis Prevost who took the name Pope Leo XIV, the Swiss Guards which is also known as the world’s smallest army – has been in the service of the Pope in the Vatican for more than 500 years and proudly remain as guardians of the Papal legacy.
History of the Swiss Guards
The Pontifical Swiss Guards are the last-standing mercenary company of Switzerland. After the founding of the Confederation in the 13th century, when fighting as mercenaries was a common occupation, many Swiss men regularly enlisted as hired mercenaries for foreign lords.
Because of their fighting tactics, the Swiss became known as loyal and indestructible troops. They often joined brief campaigns in the summer months, to later return home paid and ready for the winter months ahead.
Knowing their reputation, their services were requested by Pope Julius II upon his election in 1503. The contract was finalized in 1505.
January 22, 1506, marks the foundation day of the Swiss Guard. On this day, 150 Swiss mercenaries, led by a commander from the canton of Uri, entered the Vatican for the first time to be blessed by the Pope.
How to become a Swiss Guard?
Strict preconditions must be fulfilled. In addition to having completed Swiss military training, a candidate must be a practicing Catholic and be at least 174 cm or roughly five feet, seven inches tall.
When one sees the stoic calmness and professionalism with which the Guards carry out their duties, it is immediately clear that in addition to the formal requirements, virtues such as discipline, respect, and professionalism are required.
The recruits are then prepared and trained both in Switzerland and in the Vatican for their tour of service, which lasts for at least two years.
The Swiss Guard yesterday and today
Today, the traditional uniform is worn by well-trained young Swiss men, thus perpetuating a tradition that has been practiced for over 500 years.
Like the mercenaries of the 16th century, they share the willingness to put their lives at the service of the head of the Catholic Church.
The Swiss Guards also distinguish themselves with other values such as reliability, loyalty, and a strong sense of duty, which are essential for their day-to-day work. (JEG/PIA-NCR)
Sources:
https://www.facebook.com/SwissEmbassyPhilippines
