3 Pinoy siblings graduate together as New York police officers

NEW YORK - In a rare occurrence, three siblings with Filipino heritage simultaneously graduated as new members of the New York Police Department (NYPD).

Ferdie and Girlie Cano were surprised to learn that their three children, Reynand (30), Reyneil (27), and Reycarl (25), would all become police officers at the same time.

They are among over 550 new members of New York's Finest.

Coming from a family of healthcare professionals, the three siblings chose to enter public service to follow in the footsteps of their grandfather, who was a former immigration officer in the Philippines.

Their parents believe that their children's experiences with their former peers had a significant influence on their decision to join the police force.

“There was even a time when they were almost tempted to join a gang. Perhaps that served as a lesson for them because, you know, some of their classmates or friends really ended up in jail. Others lost their way, couldn't continue their education,” Ferdie said.

Girlie recalled the hardships and challenges her children went through.

Her joy was overwhelming when she saw Reynard, Reyneil, and Reycarl individually go up the stage.

“They really showed us that they were able to do it with their own effort. They pursued their education themselves, overcoming their obstacles in life, and they continued about it. It's like fulfillment for themselves. We are not financially stable for their things, but they made it for themselves through what they suffered. Let's put it this way: student loans, working hours, sleepless nights. There were things they couldn't buy if they wanted to. As they were going to the stage, my husband and I, you know, the joy we felt and the pride we had. They finally made it for themselves," Girlie said.

According to Ferdie, even New York City Mayor Eric Adams was surprised when the three siblings were called to the stage.

“Even the mayor of New York was surprised when we were called to the stage because of the 'Cano, Cano, Cano'. We were also surprised; it was a surprise for us too because we didn't know they would all graduate at the same time. We are very proud as Filipinos too."

On their first day as police officers, Reycarl was immediately honored after responding to and assisting residents in their building when it was on the verge of catching fire. —KG, GMA Integrated News