Baguio city: The graduating cadets of the Philippine Military Academy's (PMA) "Talang Dangal" Class of 2026 are equipped with knowledge on both traditional and modern warfare, its superintendent said Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Vice Adm. Caesar Bernard Valencia discussed the innovative training curriculum during a press briefing, emphasizing the introduction of micro courses designed to bridge the gap between traditional military training and modern warfare techniques. These courses, akin to electives, ensure that cadets are prepared for the evolving demands of military operations.
Valencia highlighted the academy's strategy to adapt to contemporary challenges, noting the importance of training soldiers for "multi-domain scenarios." He mentioned that cadets are now qualified for cyber and space warfare operations, with Python programming serving as a foundational skill for drone warfare.
The cadets' education also includes the basics of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and unmanned systems. The academy has enhanced military leadership and training by implementing a revised curriculum that emphasizes modern warfare and the physical and mental readiness of its cadets.
Valencia announced ongoing infrastructure developments, procurement of new equipment, and increased exposure training for cadets. He also noted that e-games are used as a source of tactical training and appropriate response strategies.
"We are gearing towards having a world-class education, adapting to the modern nature of warfare and working towards obtaining accreditations," he stated, referencing the establishment of additional simulation laboratories for cadet training.
Brig. Gen. Stephen Agtoto, PMA Dean for Academics, added that cadets have been tasked with constructing and developing drones in their first semester, which they will later operate and integrate with AI programs in the following semester.
Cadet First Class Christine Kaye Demisana Librada, the class topnotcher, underscored the necessity of adaptability in the face of change. "We did not enter the academy technically skilled, but we must be adaptable to all these changes, and it was inculcated in us that whenever, however grand the changes, we must adapt to them and do our best," she remarked.
Joining Librada in the top 10 are Cadet 1CL Mark John Vincent Utlang Catacutan, Cadet 1CL Thomas Edgar Isla Sepulchre, Cadet 1CL Ian Harold Durana Hubilla, Cadet 1CL Maeg Adriene Pajarillo Bermudez, Cadet 1CL Cherry Mae Panag Geco, Cadet 1CL Elixa Anya Lumbang Hernandez, Cadet 1CL Catherine Liesha Beloa De Chavez, Cadet 1CL Cedric Cyril Guingguing Polizon, and Cadet 1CL Mark Clement Dequinto Centina.
Of the 207 graduating cadets, 76 will join the Philippine Army, 62 will enter the Philippine Air Force, and 69 will serve as officers in the Philippine Navy. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will be the guest of honor and speaker at the graduation ceremony on May 16.
