Don’t forget the ‘honor code,’ AFP chief tells new PMA grads

From the Business Mirror (May 28, 2019): Don’t forget the ‘honor code,’ AFP chief tells new PMA grads

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. welcomed into the ranks on Monday the 261 junior officers who graduated a day earlier from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

In a news statement, the chief of staff said he was confident that the PMA has prepared the new officers to be up for the challenge after four years of “life-defining and world-class training.”

“Being an alumnus myself, I am confident that the academy has prepared each one of them to be fleet-ready, field-ready and squadron-ready,” he said.

The 261, topped by a female cadet, graduated from the PMA on Sunday, with no less than President Duterte gracing the ceremony.

Madrigal said the “unfolding chapter” of the junior officers’ career “will be full of challenges that will test their mettle, as well as opportunities for further learning.”

“From here onward, they will immerse in the communities and be given the chance to address the persisting problems and root causes of conflict in the country, many of which can change their perspective, present them with hard choices, and, in some cases, sacrifice their lives,” he said.

As he welcomed the officers’ into the roster of the AFP, Madrigal said he was hoping that they will not forget the “Honor Code” and the character that was built upon them and “hold the trust long after they have left the long gray line.”

“Ultimately, in the face of the hardest of challenges to their life, dignity, and integrity, be guided by the academy’s core values of selfless service, honor, and excellence,” he said.

The junior officers will join the military’s three major armed services.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/05/28/dont-forget-the-honor-code-afp-chief-tells-new-pma-grads/