AFP chief welcomes new PMA graduates

May 27, 2019

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Benjamin Madrigal Jr. welcomed the hundreds of members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 2019 who graduated last Sunday.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines proudly welcomes into the regular force the 261 members of the Philippine Military Academy Mabalasik Class of 2019 who have endured at least four years of life-defining and world-class training,” he said.

“Being an alumnus myself, I am confident that the Academy has prepared each one of them to be "fleet-ready, field-ready, and squadron-ready,” he noted.

“The unfolding chapter of their career will be full of challenges that will test their mettle, as well as opportunities for further learning,” he added.

Madrigal expressed hope that the new graduates “will never forget the honor code” as they face challenges while in military service.

“From here onwards, they will immerse in the communities and be given the chance to address the persisting problems and root causes of conflict in the country, many of which can change their perspective, present them with hard choices, and, in some cases, sacrifice their lives,” he said.

“In all these, I hope that they will never forget the Honor Code and the character that was built upon them and "hold the trust long after they have left the long gray line,” he stated.

“Ultimately, in the face of the hardest of challenges to their life, dignity, and integrity, be guided by the Academy's Core Values of selfless service, honor, and excellence,” Madrigal said. Robina Asido/DMS