Baguio City: Anita Ticar, the mother of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) 'Siklab-Laya' Class of 2025 valedictorian, 2nd Lt. Jessie Ticar Jr., expressed her hopes that her son and his fellow graduates will serve the country with dedication. Ticar Jr. joined the academy with the aim of lifting his family out of poverty, and his achievements have exceeded expectations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ticar conveyed her pride and gratitude during the graduation ceremony at Fort del Pilar in Baguio City. She prayed for divine guidance for her son and the 265 other graduates as they embark on their careers in service to the nation. "I hope for the Lord's guidance for you to serve the country," she said.

Ticar Jr., 23, previously studied engineering at a state university in Manila before enrolling in the PMA. His decision was influenced by his father's inability to work following a stroke. Ticar Jr. has made history by achieving the highest grade point average of 9.52 percent in the academy's history, earning him the distinction of being the fourth summa cum laude since the PMA's establishment in 1898.

During the graduation ceremony, PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia highlighted the graduates' resilience in overcoming challenges, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. "This is the result of your hard work. During your stay in the academy, you exhibited traits of a modern-day Philippine soldier," Valencia stated, acknowledging the class's transformation from civilian to military life and their readiness to serve the nation.

Valencia also noted the significance of the graduates' journey, which included overcoming academic and physical demands. "They have made a mark in the academy's history. They have many stories to tell, stories of resilience, stories of triumphs versus adversity," he added.