Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo presented on Sunday, May 15, the first “Chief Justice Saber” award to Cadet 1CL Ian Joseph V. Bragancia “for having the highest overall rating in all Military Law courses offered by the Academic Group” at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in Baguio City.
The presentation was done during the 117th PMA commencement exercises for “Bagsik Diwa” Class of 2022.
The “Chief Justice Saber” award is the latest of the recognitions bestowed by the PMA to members of its graduating class, in addition to the “Presidential Saber” and “Vice Presidential Saber” given to the class valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.
Cadet 1CL Bragancia, who graduated No. 3 among the members of “Bagsik-Diwa” (Bagong Sibol Kinabukasan Didigma Hanggang sa Wakas), was also presented the “SND Saber” for ranking third on the Military Precedence List and “Philippine Army Saber” for being the number one graduating cadet joining the Philippine Army.
A native of Pototan in Iloilo, Bragancia received plaques in Mathematics, Natural Sciences, National Security Studies, and Army Professional Courses for ranking No. 1 in these courses.
He also received the “General Antonio Luna Award” for being No. 1 in all Military Science Courses, “Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award” for being one of the best overall performing graduates of each major service, and “Distinguished Cadet Award” for being on the Dean’s List for the two terms and Commandant’s List for three terms.
Last April 30, Chief Justice Gesmundo was guest of honor during the recognition ceremony for the members of “Siklab Laya” PMA class 2025.
He told the class members that “civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military.”
“Remember that this provision makes explicit the principle of civilian supremacy. Civilian supremacy... is not a guaranteed supremacy of civilian officers who are in power, but the supremacy of the sovereign people,” he stressed.
He also told the class members “to prepare and be ready for a lifetime of training and discipline towards the faithful observance of a life in integrity.”