Weekend closure of PMA defended

MANILA, Philippines — Closing the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to tourists on weekdays is justified, according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

Lorenzana said the country’s only premiere military school in Baguio City should not be considered a tourist spot since the influx of tourists on weekdays will definitely interfere with the activities of the school.

Lorenzana, however, stressed PMA is not totally shutting its doors to tourists.

“Closure will only be during weekdays as it interferes with cadet activities. Tourists are welcome during weekends and holidays,” said Lorenzana, a PMA graduate of “Maagap” Class of 1973.

PMA spokesman Col. Harry Ballaga Jr. announced the closure of the academy to tourists on weekdays starting Jan. 23.

Ballaga said the increasing number of tourist arrivals at the academy on weekdays is affecting the training of the cadets.

Ballaga said the PMA leadership had decided to allow tourists to only visit the military school on Saturdays and Sundays while cadets are on their weekend break.

The PMA, a good 30-minute ride from the city of Baguio, has been attracting a lot of local and foreign tourists not only because it offers a glimpse of what it is like of being a cadet but also because of the various spots within the campus where visitors can have breathtaking views surrounding the mountain city.