BAGUIO CITY (PIA) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. urged the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “MAndirigmang May DAngal SImbolo ng Galing at PagbangON”(MADASIGON) Class of 2023 to cling to the lessons imbibed in the academy which they can apply when confronted with daunting challenges.
"As you encounter challenges along the way, apply the hard lessons that you have learned while in the halls of the Academy, clinging to the values of courage, integrity and patriotism. That way, you will never lose your way. Live up to the precepts that define your class identity namely, honor, excellence and ability to recover and help lead our nation towards a progressive and prosperous future that we all aspire for," Pres. Marcos said in his keynote message during the PMA graduation ceremony at Fort del Pilar here on Sunday, May 21.
As the President conveyed his congratulations to this year's graduates, he also reminded them to continue refueling their undying commitment, the genuine love for the country, and for public service.
"You now continue your lifelong commitment to the nation. The true battles will now begin," the President stressed.
He also noted the importance of remaining humble and honoring those who have nurtured them until this momentous day especially their parents, families, mentors, peers and other loved ones.
"The gratitude and appreciation simply do not end with the kind words that you say but in the deeds that you demonstrate to them and to the country from today. Henceforth, through your conscientious and responsible performance of your duties, you make them and everyone proud as fellow citizens of the Republic on which our peaceful and orderly society rest, and of which we are all but individual actors," Pres. Marcos said.
As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, he assured that he will work closely with the graduates who are the future leaders of the Armed Forces, in building a stronger and more resilient Republic.
A total of 310 cadets graduated today from the original number of 311 after a cadet violated a regulation which did not merit him to attend the graduation ceremony. The graduates are composed of 238 males and 72 females who will serve under the three branches of AFP. One hundred fifty-eight will join the Philippine Army and 75 to the Philippine Air Force as second lieutenants and 77 to the Philippine Navy as Ensigns.
Vice President Sara Duterte was supposed to award the Vice-Presidential Saber to the class salutatorian, unfortunately, she was not able to attend.
Joining the President in presenting the awards and diplomas to the graduates are Department of National Defense OIC Senior USec. Carlito Galvez Jr., National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, PMA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Rowen Tolentino, Commandant of Cadets Brigadier General Julius Tomines, and Dean of Academics Brigadier General Jose Demar Pauly. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)
