Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the 207 graduates of the Philippine Military Academy 'Talang Dangal' Class of 2026, urging them to remain apolitical and loyal to the Constitution. During the commencement at Fort del Pilar, Marcos emphasized the importance of integrity, discipline, and honor in fulfilling their duty to serve and protect the nation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos highlighted that the graduates' loyalty should not be tied to political interests, individuals, or ideologies, but firmly rooted in the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines. He reminded them of the challenges they may encounter, stressing that their allegiance to the Philippine flag would guide them through difficult decisions.

Marcos underscored the importance of adhering to the Honor Code of the academy, advocating for zero tolerance toward dishonesty and wrongdoing. He emphasized that silence in the face of misconduct betrays the values and principles they are sworn to defend.

The President expressed confidence in the graduates' readiness to tackle both national and emerging threats. He noted that the PMA's modernization efforts have prepared future military leaders to address threats extending beyond traditional battlefields.

Marcos mentioned that although the full benefits of curriculum reform will be realized by the class of 2029, current cadets have been introduced to new disciplines such as data science, artificial intelligence, and electronic warfare, equipping them with essential skills for future challenges.

The 'Tagapagtanggol ng Lahing Dakila at Marangal' batch comprises 207 cadets, with 142 men and 65 women joining the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Leading the graduates is Cadet 1st Class Christine Kaye Demisana Librada from Lipa City, Batangas, who will be commissioned as a junior officer in the Philippine Army.