President Marcos tells PMA graduates: Uphold democratic ideals

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, Philippines — Promising a sustained modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and promotion of the welfare of AFP members, President Marcos yesterday called on the 310 graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Madasigon” Class of 2023 to uphold democratic ideals and the rule of law.

Speaking at Fort del Pilar in Baguio City, Marcos reminded the graduates that expressing gratitude to their country goes beyond mere words, emphasizing the importance of conscientious and responsible performance of their duties.

“As you join the military’s ranks, continue to fuel your undying and genuine love for country and commitment to public service. In all your tasks, diligently work for unity, respect for democratic ideals, institutions and mechanisms, and the rule of law,” the Commander-in-Chief said.

Madasigon stands for Mandirigmang May Dangal Simbolo at Galing at Pagbangon.

Leading the Madasigon Class was valedictorian, Cadet First-Class Warren de Guzman Leonor of Lipa City, Batangas, whom Marcos urged to remain humble and honor those who had supported them in the pursuit of their dreams and aspirations.

“And that is why this day is also a day to honor your parents, your families, your loved ones, as well as your mentors and your peers,” the President added.

Marcos also reiterated his relentless pursuit for the AFP Modernization Program through important military asset acquisitions and upgrades as he emphasized that the government is also undertaking a comprehensive study to improve the social protection for the military and uniformed personnel.

The Chief Executive also cited the recently signed amendment to Republic Act 11709, which aims to further strengthen the professionalization and merit system of the armed forces.

He also signed the pardon of punishment that were acquired by cadets during their training.

Of this year’s graduates, 158 (123 males and 35 females) will join the Philippine Army; 76 (57 males and 19 females) will join the Philippine Air Force; and 77 (59 males and 18 females) will join the Philippine Navy.

According to the Presidential Communications Office, two parents of the Madasigon Class belong to Class 1982 during the administration of Marcos’ late father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

Police Gen. Miguel Laurel and Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Eduardo Gongona from PMA Class 1982 are the parents of new graduates, Cadet Titus Laurel and Cadet Jose Eduardo Vivencio Lumbera Gongona.

Leonor, who will join the PAF, received the Presidential Saber awards along with the Award of Excellence (cum laude), Philippine Air Force Saber, and the Joint United States Military Assistance Group Saber, among others.

In his valedictory address, he offered his success to his parents – retired Technical Sergeant Joel Leonor and mother, Angelina. “Para po sa inyo ang lahat na ito [This is all for you],” he told them.

The teary-eyed parents later told journalists after the ceremony that they cherish their son’s feat.

The following also comprised the top 10 graduates of the PMA Class of 2023: Cadets First-Class Edmundo Logronio, Nicole Sarmiento, Zhen Zhen Cayton, Rez Mark Cantor, Rojan Macario, Samuel Banac, Kimberly Kate Lawingan, Jay Fernandez and Arla Krish Bahingawan. — Artemio Dumla