FORT GENERAL GREGORIO H DEL PILAR, Baguio City – The Philippine Military Academy spearheaded by LTGen. Rowen Tolentino, PA, Superintendent, PMA, held the oath-taking and reception rites of PMA Class 2027 at the Borromeo Field, Thursday.
The program officially began with the formation and entrance of the plebe detail and Training Directorate led by LTC Vincent Bonifacio PA, Senior Tactical Officer, followed by the report of the NCBN Directorate to BGen. Julius Tomines PA, Commandant of Cadets. Subsequently, the singing of the national anthem was followed by the invocation, blessing of the new cadet battalion, oath taking, and oath of office of PMA Class 2027.
During his message, LTGEN TOLENTINO quoted one of the verses in the bible which was found in Matthew 22:14. “‘For many are called but few are chosen’. These words carry significant meaning particularly when it comes to the noble journey of serving our nation as future military officers. It is a calling that only a select few heed – recognizing that the path they embark upon is one of the highest and most honorable commitments they can make.
The reception rites holds a special place in the hearts of our new entrants, the plebes, as it marks the threshold of their transformation. This significant event signifies the beginning of their arduous yet rewarding journey as cadets. It is during this time that their physical and mental endurance will be tested and preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead. From this day forward, they will be molded, shaped, and guided as they gradually transition from being civilians to becoming professional military officers.”
He also acknowledged the loved ones of the plebes: “To the proud parents, guardians, relatives and friends of the PMA Class of 2027, thank you for your support and guidance. Thank you also for the trust and confidence in PMA and I know that it is a big sacrifice on your part to let your sons and daughters enter the academy because as we all know it will not be a very smooth training, but they will encounter a lot of hardships and sacrifices.”
After the message of LTGen. Tolentino, the turnover of the new cadet battalion to the plebe detail, reception proper, and consolidation/reorganization were rendered.
Exceptionally, out of 24,571 who took the PMA Entrance Examination (PMAEE), only 1,289 passed and took the Cadet Qualifying Test (CQT). Likewise, 1,023 reported for Complete Physical Examination (CPE) at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (AFPMC).
Remarkably, 268 candidates (191 males and 77 females) were accepted to participate during the reception.
