On Feb. 21, 2026, Baguio City will once again welcome Cavaliers from across the country—and from foreign shores—for the annual PMA Alumni Homecoming. More than a reunion, this gathering is a pilgrimage. It is a return to shared memories of hardship and triumph, discipline and brotherhood—experiences that bind every alumnus and alumna who proudly carries the name Cavalier and Peemayer.

This year’s homecoming carries special meaning. On this auspicious occasion, PMAAAI Chairman and CEO Rear Admiral Ramon Punzalan will formally report to the alumni the completion of the PMA Center for Leadership and Excellence in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. In fact, the Annual General Membership Meeting was already conducted in this facility last Jan. 24, 2026. Accolades are in order for the incumbent Board of Directors.

Long envisioned and patiently pursued, the building now stands as a physical manifestation of a deeper truth: leadership, when shared and sustained, endures.

The Center will house the association’s administrative offices and generate modest income through leased spaces to support operational needs. Yet beyond its functionality, the building tells a larger story—one forged through collective leadership and strengthened by partnerships with Megaworld, Resorts World Corporation, and PAGCOR. These institutions did not merely donate resources; they invested in national security and in the values that safeguard it.

1. Financial commitment as corporate social responsibility

Every Chairman and CEO who shepherded this project faced unique challenges, yet all shared a singular resolve. A substantial portion of the project’s funding came from Megaworld Development Corporation under the leadership of Dr. Andrew Tan, and from PAGCOR under Chairman Alfredo Tengco. Both institutions viewed their contributions not simply as donations, but as long-term investments—investments whose dividends extend far beyond concrete and steel.

This spirit echoes what social scientist Patrick Maclagan, PhD, emphasized: that corporate institutions carry social obligations to respond meaningfully to societal needs. Megaworld and PAGCOR exemplify this principle, standing as models of corporate social responsibility grounded in nation-building.

Equally deserving of recognition are the past PMAAAI Chairmen and CEOs who initiated early fundraising efforts. Their seriousness of purpose ignited the passion of those who followed, ensuring that momentum was never lost.

2. Identifying and securing the right location

Megaworld proposed that the Center be located near its corporate headquarters in Bonifacio Global City—a strategic and symbolic choice. The only viable area, however, was within the Headquarters of the Philippine Army. What followed were negotiations under successive Commanding Generals: Generals Gapay, Alberto, Sobejana, Faustino, Galido and Brawner.

By remarkable coincidence—and perhaps by destiny—all were PMA alumni. Their shared loyalty to the Academy and belief in the project paved the way for a usufruct agreement. In a gesture of reciprocity, one entire floor of the building was allocated for the use of the Philippine Army—a reminder that partnership and mutual respect remain cornerstones of leadership.

3. Overcoming physical and social obstacles

The proposed site was not without complications. It was occupied by informal settlers operating restaurants, tailor shops, barber shops, printing services, and other small businesses catering to soldiers. While legitimate in function, these establishments lacked permits from the local government of Taguig and resisted relocation, leading to legal challenges.

At the time, the Southern Police District of the National Capital Region, PNP was led by Director Peralta of PMA Class ’91. Through tact, diplomacy, civil-military coordination, and calibrated law enforcement, the issue was resolved peacefully. The settlers voluntarily vacated the area, allowing the project to proceed without untoward incident—proof that firmness and compassion can coexist in leadership.

The PMA Center for Leadership and Excellence is more than a newly inaugurated structure in Fort Bonifacio. It is a name, a symbol, and an institution that reflects the Academy’s enduring values of Courage, Loyalty, and Integrity.

This building stands as a testament to collective leadership—one that transcends individuality and thrives on continuity. From Chairmen Melchor Rosales (Class ’68), Jaime de los Santos (Class ’69), Rufo de Veyra (Class ’70), Edgar Aglipay (Class ’71), Amado Espino (Class ’72), Vidal Querol (Class ’73), Danilo Abinoja (Class ’74), Raul Gonzales (Class ’75), to Rear Admiral Ramon Punzalan (Class ’76), each leader carried the vision forward, contributing incrementally while preserving the thread of unity.

Former Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also played an influential role, as the project required the imprimatur of the defense establishment. Special mention goes to Cavalier Danilo Estrañero (Class ’94), who supervised the project on site and coordinated all requirements, particularly those requiring the concurrence of the Philippine Army. The 2026 Cavalier Awardee for Alumni Affairs, Cavalier Frederick Ramos, past president of Class ’84, worked persistently to secure the financial package from PAGCOR. By a confluence of events, his long-standing association with PAGCOR Chairman Tengco dates back to their Ateneo days—from preschool to high school—an enduring relationship that ultimately supported the project’s realization.

Succession management remains one of PMAAAI’s quiet strengths. Its dynamic and vibrant Board ensures that leadership is nurtured, prepared, and sustained across generations. Each class is given the opportunity to prepare through understudy, exposure, and active participation in alumni affairs—ensuring that excellence is never accidental, but intentional.

In the end, the Center reminds us that leadership is not about who begins or who finishes a project. It is about honoring the mission, preserving the values, and ensuring that what we build today continues to guide those who will lead tomorrow.

A great challenge awaits the incoming Board to be led by Cav Ricardo David Jr. (Class ’77) and to the future Boards. Financial viability is the key to transform it into a workable going concern.

PMA—Oh, hail to thee!