By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday called on 266 members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Siklab-Laya” Class of 2025 to stay “mentally sharp” amid the growing threat of cyber warfare.
Speaking at the commencement rites at Fort Gregorio H. Del Pilar in Baguio City, the President reminded the cadets that modern warfare now extends beyond traditional domains.
“Beyond recognition, the most important lesson you carry is the understanding that warfare today goes beyond land, seas, and skies,” he said, noting that the new battleground takes place in cyberspace.
“We have battles that are invisible to radar—ones that take place in cyberspace, in protecting information, in safeguarding the environment, and in helping communities during crises.”
The Chief Executive reminded the graduates that physical strength and agility are no longer enough and “what we need just as much are your mental sharpness and your compassion.”
He advised them to apply what they have learned during their training and courses in the academy, especially in such areas as artificial intelligence, drone technology, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership.
Marcos also hailed the Siklab-Laya Class as a “class of many firsts,” citing that they were the first cadets trained on Pag-asa Island and had represented the PMA in international military forums and competitions.
“I commend your perseverance, strength of will, and dedication,” the President said. “But above all, what matters most is your love for the country—loving it genuinely despite its imperfections.”
“These are all important. But what is also important, and possibly the most important, is your love of country. That is, an officer who knows how to love his or her country despite its flaws, in the most sincere way,” he added.
“Our country needs men and women who put their country and others above themselves; who sacrifice for the good of all; and who overcome odds because they believe in the bright future ahead.”
Siklab-Laya Class consists of 212 men and 54 women.
The Philippine Army will receive 137 of the new graduates, 71 will serve in the Philippine Navy, and 58 will be part of the Philippine Air Force.
The graduating class joined the academy at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
The class valedictorian, Cadet 1st Class Jessie Ticar Jr., is the fourth cadet to graduate summa cum laude and has the highest average among all graduates. He is set to join the Army.
