On Oct. 25 every year, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) celebrates its foundation anniversary. We salute not just an institution on its 127th anniversary, but also a long history of sacrifice, discipline, and patriotism. PMA has always been the birthplace of warrior leaders. Its graduates value courage over comfort, place integrity above all else, and emphasize loyalty to the nation.

Since its revolutionary creation in 1898 under President Emilio Aguinaldo as the Academia Militar and its formal birth under the National Defense Act in 1936, the PMA has served as a core contributor of quality officers for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). It is where young Filipinos are nurtured to develop into warrior leaders who protect the Republic and carry the flag.

PMA alumni have not only led, but also bled. During World War II, cadets quit the comforts of the Academy to fight against foreign invaders. Over the past several years, they have led strikes against insurgents, provided relief during disasters, and deployed as peacekeepers in risky regions. In 1990, then Captain Arturo Ortiz (Class of 1979) risked his life beyond the call of duty and led a bold offensive operation against 200 numerically superior rebels in Negros Occidental to achieve a decisive victory. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Bartolome Bacarro, class of 1988, during a ten-hour battle against 150 rebels who attacked Maconacon, Isabela, in 1991, fearlessly rescued pinned-down comrades, despite being wounded, and successfully defended the town from being overrun. For their leadership and unparalleled gallantry, Captain Ortiz and Lieutenant Bacarro were awarded the highest award for bravery, the Medal of Valor.

PMA produces warriors and molds honorable men and women. Senator Panfilo Lacson of class 1971 declared war on bribery as the PNP Chief. With the same vigor, he battled corruption in the Senate. Mayor Benjamin Magalong (Class 1982) stood firm on his findings during the Mamasapano probe despite intense external pressure. He remains to lead Baguio under a good governance mantle. Presently, both alumni are prominent in exposing corruption in government infrastructure projects. As a result of their bold position, innuendos are being spread, and their convictions are being questioned. Unmoved, they choose the nation over comfort, and truth over silence. Integrity is a battle for them.

The 127th Foundation Celebration happened in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City, following the theme, “Forging the Leaders of Character while Transforming into a Globally Competitive Defense Learning Institution.” The Guest of Honor, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., raised the value of PMA adapting to the evolving defense environment. He challenged the Academy to bridge the gap between generalist training and the special skills needed for the future AFP. Lastly, he commended the revised academic program, which included the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept

Now, however, PMA graduates are facing a new, morally challenging battle. Corruption crept like a plague in our government, rousing the emotions of the PMA community. In the PMA graduates’ chat group, outrage and disgust are observed, and “How to stop it?” is the oft-discussed topic by the PMA retired alumni. Former cadets and retired PMA graduates also signed a manifesto denouncing institutional corruption. Furthermore, my article in this paper, “Real talk by real soldiers on corruption,” published last October 6, elicited the voices of active military personnel, including PMA graduates, who expressed their extreme frustration. “The system is corruption or corruption is the system,” a PMA alumnus remarked.

These are not mere grumblings; they are cautionary signs. Those who pledged allegiance to the nation are beginning to lose their resolve to defend the government due to the perceived slow pace of justice and the absence of accountability. The PMA Honor Code, “Not to lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do,” is not just a catchy tagline to those who passed PMA but a solemn vow. Leaders who break it not only breach morality but also violate the principles of their followers. Lastly, we must distinctly remember our recent history: revolutions were started by the lieutenants and not by the generals.

One reality emerges as we reflect on the legacy of the Philippine Military Academy: Rather than just a school, PMA is a forge. It has produced warriors who have protected our nation and leaders who have spoken up for what is right.

Yes, we must remember the past as we mark PMA’s Foundation Day, but we must keep in mind that the future is the issue. Let us rise with the bravery of our warriors, the integrity of our leaders, and the tenacity of every Filipino who still has faith in our country’s future. It is not just their battle for the truth; it is ours as well. And we have to stand together to defend our nation’s spirit.