A 23-year-old son of a former taxi driver and a vendor from Quezon City has emerged as the top graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Sundalong Isinilang na Kasangga at Lakas ng Ating Bayan para sa Kalayaan (SIKLAB-Laya) Class of 2025.
The PMA graduation rites will be held on Saturday, May 17.
Cadet First Class Jessie JR R. Ticar, the youngest of three siblings, will receive the prestigious Presidential Saber from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for graduating as class valedictorian.
He also made history as only the fourth summa cum laude in PMA’s records, posting the highest grade point average in the class.
In addition to the Presidential Saber, Ticar will receive multiple accolades, including the JUSMAG Saber, Tactics Group Award, Natural Sciences Plaque, Army Professional Courses Plaque, Army Saber, Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award, Gen. Antonio Luna Award, and Humanities Plaque.
Ticar said he joined the PMA to pursue higher education and support his family after his father became a person with disability.
Though unfamiliar with military life, he quickly adapted with the support of his peers and consistent prayer, eventually uncovering his potential for excellence.
Despite financial hardships, Ticar managed his resources well and balanced his time amid cadet responsibilities.
PMA Superintendent Cesar Bernard Valencia earlier said that 266 cadets 212 males and 54 females will graduate this year. Of them, 137 will join the Army, 71 the Navy, and 58 the Air Force.
