President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday called on graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2026 to uphold integrity, discipline, and loyalty to the Constitution as they enter military service during a commencement ceremony held at the academy grounds.
In his address, Marcos congratulated the 207 graduating cadets, singling out top performer Christine Kaye Demisana Librada, and praised the cohort for completing rigorous training that transformed them from cadets into commissioned officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“You all now carry the name ‘Talang Dangal, Tagapagtanggol ng Lahing Dakila at Marangal,’” Marcos said, referring to the class designation. He said the title reflects a new generation of leaders expected to embody courage, integrity, and loyalty as “non-negotiable standards” of service.
The president emphasized that modern security threats extend beyond traditional warfare, citing cyberattacks, disinformation, territorial disputes, climate-related disasters, and efforts to undermine public trust in government institutions.
“These challenges are no longer confined to conventional battlefields,” Marcos said, adding that the government has begun modernizing PMA training to better prepare cadets for emerging forms of warfare.
He noted that while full curriculum reforms will benefit future batches, cadets have already been introduced to subjects such as data science, Python programming, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and unmanned systems.
Marcos stressed that adaptability and analytical skills are increasingly essential for military officers, particularly in distinguishing truth from misinformation in the digital age. However, he said that technical proficiency must be anchored on moral foundations.
“The true strength of a soldier will always be rooted in integrity, discipline, and honor,” he said.
The president reminded graduates that their loyalty must remain with the Philippine Constitution, not political figures or interests, as they assume their roles in public service.
He also reiterated the academy’s honor code—“never lie, never cheat, never steal, and never tolerate those who do”—warning that silence in the face of wrongdoing constitutes betrayal of both country and duty.
Marcos acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by cadets during their training, including time away from families and enduring physical and emotional hardships.
“Today, I share with you the noble duty of protecting the Filipino people,” he said, urging the new officers to serve with commitment as they join the Armed Forces.
The president ended his message by expressing confidence in the graduates, saying he believes they will serve the nation faithfully as the country continues its push toward a “more secure, peaceful, and stronger Bagong Pilipinas.”
