GUEST COLUMNIST

On Feb. 15, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) once again opened its gates to welcome home its alumni for the Annual General Alumni Homecoming at Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City. This time-honored tradition serves as more than just a gathering—it is a reaffirmation of the academy’s enduring legacy of leadership, service, and patriotism.

This year’s homecoming carried the theme “Advocates of Transformation: Cavaliers Leadership in Action,” highlighting the crucial role that PMA alumni play in shaping the nation's future through transformative leadership. PMA graduates have been at the forefront of national development, adapting to the evolving challenges of governance, security, and public service while remaining steadfast in their commitment to duty and honor.
From across the archipelago and beyond, the alumni returned to their alma mater, reconnecting with the institution that shaped them into the nation’s defenders and public servants. The event was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices, discipline, and values instilled within every cadet who has walked the halls of Melchor Hall, endured the grueling training at the Borromeo Field, and emerged as an officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Beyond the ceremonial traditions, the homecoming serves as a time for reflection. Every inch of Fort Del Pilar tells a story—a testament to the hardships, challenges, and victories that define a PMA education. The academy’s mission remains steadfast: “To instruct, train, and develop the cadets so that each graduate shall possess the character, the broad and basic military skills, and the education essential to the successful pursuit of a progressive military career.”

In a time of complex political, social, and security challenges, the relevance of PMA’s training has never been more pronounced. The academy does not merely produce officers; it molds leaders of integrity, capable of navigating the nation through crises, ensuring peace and security, and upholding the highest standards of governance.

Advocates of transformation

PMA graduates have provided decisive and responsible leadership in the transformation of our national life at every stage of history, from the pre-Commonwealth period to the present. Their manifest display of leadership has been a determining factor in neutralizing major crises that could have caused irreparable damage to the nation. Whether in the battlefields of World War II, the counter-insurgency campaign, the war against secessionist movements, or the fight against lawlessness, PMA graduates have demonstrated courage and strategic acumen in defending the country’s sovereignty and security.

Beyond military operations, their leadership has extended to humanitarian efforts—disaster relief and rehabilitation operations, as well as governance roles in various institutions. Their contributions to public service, nation-building, and institutional reforms reaffirm the Academy’s relevance in shaping leaders of character.

Honor: The PMA hallmark

At the core of PMA’s identity is its Honor System—a moral compass that guides every cadet and alumni. “A cadet does not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do.” This creed, though simple, carries profound implications. It is a sacred commitment to integrity and ethical leadership.

The Honor System is not without its trials. There have been those who faltered, succumbing to external pressures. Yet, these isolated cases do not define PMA’s alumni; rather, it is the vast majority who continue to uphold these principles, standing as beacons of trust and accountability in the military, government, and private sectors.

Courage and loyalty

Courage in PMA is both physical and moral. It is developed through rigorous training, demanding physical conditioning, and relentless pursuit of excellence. But beyond the battlefield, moral courage—the strength to make the right decisions even in the face of adversity—is what truly defines a PMA graduate.

Loyalty, on the other hand, is absolute. It is not to individuals or fleeting political interests, but to the flag, country, and people. This unwavering dedication to national service is what distinguishes the academy’s graduates, ensuring that leadership remains anchored on duty and patriotism.

PMA alumni: Shaping the nation

The 2025 Homecoming was also a moment of reckoning. On Jan. 25, during the PMA Alumni Association’s General Membership Meeting, the organization passed a unanimous resolution condemning corruption, recognizing it as one of the greatest threats to national progress. Incumbent Chairman Raul Gonzales passionately articulated this stance, reinforcing PMA’s role in fostering principled leadership across all sectors.

The event also honored distinguished alumni who have excelled in military, police, coast guard, and government service. Among them was Ambassador Isaias Begonia ’69, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his distinguished career in diplomacy, culminating in his service as ambassador plenipotentiary to Qatar and Romania.

Adding to the significance of the occasion was the guest of honor, Atty. Alejandro H. Tengco, president of PAGCOR, a leader known for his excellence in governance. Under his stewardship, Pagcor has been instrumental in supporting numerous PMA initiatives, including the PMAAAI Center of Leadership Excellence, set to be completed soon.

A legacy that endures

As the homecoming concluded, the echoes of the PMA hymn lingered in the air:
“May thy sons ever be, men of Integrity, Courage, and Loyalty.”

This annual pilgrimage is more than a tradition—it is a testament to the academy’s unwavering mission to serve the Filipino people. As the country faces evolving challenges, the values forged within the walls of Fort Del Pilar remain steadfast, ensuring that the PMA alumni continue to lead with honor, courage, and loyalty.

(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.)