PMA cadets in Cebu for Southern Cruise

CEBU, Philippines - The Naval Forces Central welcomed 190 cadets of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 2015 at around 6:30 in the morning yesterday.

The cadets arrived in Cebu to promote the PMA to aspiring youth and to bring the academy closer to the community.

The Navforcen serves as the starting point of the cadets’ Southern Cruise.

The cadets were welcomed by Commodore Roberto Santos, Commander of the Navforcen, in the arrival ceremony.

In his welcome address, Santos encouraged them to see the beautiful scenery of Cebu and to acquire new learning during their stay which could help them during their training.

 The cadets were also given briefing on the tasks of the Philippine Navy in helping secure the country. Also discussed were the three branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines – the army, navy, and air force.

The class has 167 men and 23 women. They will be staying in Cebu for a series of activities during their four-day stay before they will depart for Davao City on Sunday.

Last year, there were 275 cadets who visited Cebu.

Today, the PMA re-launches its Foster Parent Program. This voluntary program, which is open to the public, is for parents who are willing to adopt the PMA cadets.

The program was last held in 1992.

The PMA is encouraging qualified Cebuanos to apply to enjoy the benefits of being a PMA cadet.

The cadets will also have a silent drill exhibition at 2:00 p.m. today at the Camp Lapu-Lapu. This is open for public viewing.

For the following days, the cadets will be having orientation tour about the AFP unit in Cebu, a city tour, static display, cadet hop, and a silent drill exhibition which will be held at the South Western University tomorrow at 2:00 p.m., and at the University of San Jose-Recoletos on Saturday.

Everyone is welcome to visit the venues to watch their activities. — (FREEMAN)