Prepare for modern battles, cyber threats
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday urged the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy to embrace modern warfare with both mental acuity and compassion, encouraging them to serve the nation with dignity and honor.
Addressing the PMA “Siklab-Laya” Class of 2025 during their commencement exercises at Fort General Gregorio del Pilar in Baguio City, the President highlighted the importance of character and intellect in military service.
He also hailed the graduates as being part of a “class of many firsts,” noting they were the first cadets trained on Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea and had represented the academy in international military fora and competitions.
“The most important lesson you carry is the understanding that warfare today goes beyond land, seas, and skies,” Mr. Marcos said.
“We have battles that are invisible to radar—ones that take place in cyberspace, in protecting information, in safeguarding the environment, and in helping communities during crises. So physical strength and agility are no longer enough. What we need just as much—are your mental sharpness and your compassion,” the President added.
He said the PMA cadets’ training now includes courses that “were once unseen in the military academy—artificial intelligence, drone operations, strategic thinking, ethical leadership, amongst others.”
“These are all important. But what is also important, and possibly the most important, is your love of country. That is, an officer who knows how to love his or her country despite its flaws, in the most sincere way,” he said.
The 266 first-class cadets of the Siklab-Laya Class consist of 212 men and 54 women.
About 137 of the 266 graduates will join the Philippine Army, 71 will serve in the Philippine Navy, and 58 will be part of the Philippine Air Force.
The President also hailed the inspiring journey of Lt. Jessie R. Ticar Jr., the class valedictorian, describing him as a shining example of perseverance, discipline, and patriotism.
Ticar is only the fourth summa cum laude in PMA history.
“With his desire to finish school and give his parents a good life, he tried to become a soldier,” the President said.
Mr. Marcos also thanked Ticar’s parents—a taxi driver and a street vendor—for their unwavering support and selflessness in entrusting their son to serve the nation.
“I know there is doubt in their hearts, but they chose to share you with our people,” the President said.
Ticar received multiple awards, such as the Presidential Saber, Philippine Army Saber, JUSMAG Saber, and the Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.
