Marcos to PMA grads: Loyalty to Constitution, not politics

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday reminded the new graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) that their loyalty should be to the Constitution and not to any political interest or personality, as he urged them not to condone wrongdoing that could blemish the integrity of the institution now in the spotlight because of the issues plaguing one of its alumni, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa.

Speaking at the commencement exercises of the PMA “Talang Dangal” class of 2026, Marcos said the true strength of a soldier would always be rooted in integrity, discipline and honor.

“As you take your oath today, remember that your loyalty is not to any political interest, not to any individual, nor any passing ideology. Your loyalty must always remain with the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines,” the President said.

“Throughout this mission, carry with you the honor code instilled in you by the academy. Never lie, never cheat, never steal and never tolerate those who do. Because silence in the face of wrongdoing is a betrayal of your values, a betrayal of your country and a betrayal of the very principles that you have sworn to defend,” he added.

Marcos made the remarks amid the political ruckus caused by Dela Rosa’s move to evade an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) last Wednesday, with the help of the Senate leadership which placed him under protective custody.

He would eventually sneak out of the Senate premises before dawn the following day. Dela Rosa, a former police chief, is a member of the academy’s “Sinagtala”class of 1986.

Marcos also called on the new PMA graduates to expect “a lot of forks in the road” that would test their resolve and place them in situations where they must choose between difficult options.

“But as long as you remain faithful to our flag and committed to serving our citizens, you will never lose direction,” the Chief Executive said.

“Do this to also honor your upper-class superiors, your mentors, instructors, your parents, families and loved ones, all those who believed in you throughout this demanding yet rewarding journey,” he added.

According to Marcos, members of the PMA class of 2026 have been exposed to the new disciplines such as data science, Python foundations, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare and unmanned systems to equip them with basic competencies in emerging technologies.

“Your sharp minds, fresh perspectives and capability not only respond to present risks, but to anticipate future threats before they even fully emerge, and that will go a long way,” he added.

Beyond the skills taught in the academy, Marcos reminded the PMA graduates that their ability to discern truth from deception is crucial to making sound decisions.

He expressed optimism that the newly commissioned military officers are capable of faithfully serving their fellow Filipinos and the nation.

“You all now carry the name Talang Dangal, tagapagtanggol ng lahing dakila at marangal. It is a name that reflects a new core of leaders who must prove that courage, integrity and loyalty are not mere aspirations, but a non-negotiable standard,” the President said.

“It likewise speaks of responsibility, a responsibility that begins the moment you step beyond this formidable ground and into a world that will ultimately measure your conviction and your grit.”

In a statement, Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. chairman and chief executive officer Ricardo David called on the PMA graduates to “remain united, calm, circumspect and non-partisan” as the issues involving Dela Rosa are discussed in public.

In her video message to the new PMA graduates, Vice President Sara Duterte asked them to stand firm against all threats to the country’s sovereignty and the people’s liberties.

“I urge you to personify integrity and courage at all times. Stand firm against all threats to our sovereignty and our liberties. Do not waver, even in the face of the most difficult challenges,” Duterte said.

“As you step out of Fort Del Pilar, your lifelong commitment to the nation begins. Put to good use the training and values this institution has instilled in you. Be the bearers of our nation’s pride, honor and dignity,” she added.

“Today, I join your families and the entire PMA community in celebrating this milestone. Your graduation is the culmination of a rigorous journey – one defined by discipline, sacrifice and an unwavering sense of duty. Congratulations, PMA Talang Dangal Class of 2026. Thank you for choosing this noble path,” she added. — Bella Cariaso, Artemio Dumlao