GUEST COLUMNIST
By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret)
Last Saturday, Feb. 17, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) welcomed its alumni for the Annual Alumni Homecoming. This event congregates Cavaliers from across the nation and the world to their esteemed alma mater for a day of camaraderie and nostalgia, reminiscing about the challenging cadetship experiences they shared.
The alumni parade at Borromeo Field, named in honor of Gen. Patricio Borromeo, a notable alumnus and former PMA superintendent, stands as the highlight. This field is more than a parade ground; it is a testament to the myriad cadet training experiences designed to push the limits of endurance, resilience, and determination from admission to graduation. Here, cadets faced trials that defined their success or failure, through drills, ceremonies, and rigorous physical training, where only the most resilient prevailed. Academic training, another pivotal aspect of their education, takes place in Melchor Hall, named after Col. Alejandro Melchor, a distinguished scientist, engineer, and the first dean of the Corps of Professors, who is also commemorated at the UP College of Engineering.
This year, Classes 1974 and 1999 celebrated their Golden and Silver Jubilee, respectively. Likewise, Classes 1969 and 1964 respectively celebrated their Emerald and Diamond Jubilee. The Golden Jubilarians pride themselves on having produced the top leadership in the AFP and PNP, headed by Cav. Hermogenes Esperon Jr., who also became the National Security Adviser. Cav. Avelino Razon Jr. was chief of the PNP. The other major services of the Army, Navy, and Air Force completed the top leadership.
It is noteworthy to mention that during their stewardship, the country experienced relative peace and stability, upheld their constitutional mandate, and the rule of law.
The same can be said of the Class of 1969, the Emerald Jubilarians. During their term of office, Cavs Benjamin Defensor Jr. and Leandro Mendoza headed the AFP and PNP. The Commanding Generals of PA, PN, and PAF were all classmates. It was during their term when EDSA II happened. They stood strong and united, saving the Republic from breaking off.
The Class of 1964 is the smallest PMA class. Despite its size, it produced a chief of staff, Cav. Clemente Mariano, a vice-chief of the AFP, and a few area and division commanders. Classes 64, 69, and 74 are now all retired. The imprints and impressions that they left behind portrayed a sterling and meritorious record of military service.
Class of 1999, the Silver Jubilarians, now occupy the higher leadership positions in the AFP Chain of Command. They hold major managerial and leadership positions in human resources, intelligence, operations, training, logistics, communications and electronics, and other allied military areas of concern. They form the backbone that provides the essential services for the highest leadership to accomplish its mission to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country.
Many alumni have also distinguished themselves in public service, business, and industry. This includes senators, congressmen, local government officials, CEO/COOs of private enterprises. All have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the nation. Their PMA training made the difference.
Every alumnus was inculcated with the core values of courage, integrity, and loyalty. These values extend even after retirement. Every generation of graduates adhered to these values under any political leadership in power that they served, in normal times and crises. Under the present situation, wherein political stability is being tested, these values are equally relevant. They will serve as a compass that will guide their personal and professional lives.
Courage is not just bravery in the face of physical danger. It entails the moral strength to stand up for what is right and just in the face of adversity. Loyalty extends beyond allegiance to individuals or entities; it is the fidelity to principles and ideals that transcend personal or group interests. Integrity is perhaps the most crucial, encompassing honesty, transparency, and the uncompromising adherence to ethical standards.
PMA trains leaders. The importance of leadership is entwined in each core value. Leadership holds these core values together, inspiring every generation of Cavaliers to uphold them. The legacy of PMA is not just its illustrious history but the living testament of each alumnus to carry forward these values both in personal and professional lives.
"When bells for us are rung and our last taps is sung, let generation see our country free," PMA, Oh Hail To Thee, the alma mater song. These sacred words connect all alumni. It is a stark reminder to all that they bear the awesome and collective responsibility to lead.
(Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos served with distinction as a military professional, 42nd Commanding Gen. Philippine Army, 1st Force Commander, UN Multi-National Peacekeeping Force in East Timor, former member, UP Board of Regents and Professorial Lecturer II (part-time), UP-Diliman.)