President Emphasizes Mental Sharpness and Compassion in Modern Warfare
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. addressed the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Siklan-Laya” Class of 2025 graduates, highlighting that modern warfare demands not only physical strength but also mental sharpness and compassion. He urged the new military officers to serve the nation with dignity and honor during their graduation ceremony at Fort General Gregorio del Pilar in Baguio City.
In his speech, the President acknowledged the class’s achievements in elevating the PMA’s reputation through international competitions. Nonetheless, he emphasized that the true lesson for these officers is understanding that warfare today extends beyond traditional battlefields.
Expanding the Definition of Warfare
“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 President explained. He added that physical ability alone is no longer sufficient; mental sharpness and compassion are equally essential qualities for today’s military officers.
Furthermore, Marcos highlighted that the PMA curriculum now includes modern subjects such as artificial intelligence, drone operations, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership. These new courses prepare cadets for the evolving challenges of warfare.
Love of Country as the Core Value
Despite these advancements, the President stressed that the most important virtue remains a sincere love of country. “An officer who knows how to love his or her country despite its flaws, in the most sincere way,” is what the nation needs. He called for men and women who prioritize their country and fellow citizens above themselves, willing to sacrifice and overcome difficulties for a brighter future.
Inspiring Example: Cadet Jessie Ticar Jr.
Marcos shared the inspiring story of Cadet First Class Jessie Ticar Jr., the valedictorian of the Siklan-Laya Class of 2025 and the fourth summa cum laude in PMA history. Coming from humble beginnings as the son of a vendor in Quezon City, Ticar worked diligently to graduate and provide a better life for his family.
“Isa na pong halimbawa si Cadet First Class Jessie Ticar Jr., ang valedictorian ng Siklab-Laya at ika-apat na summa cum laude sa kasaysayan ng PMA. Sa pagnanais niyang makatapos ng pag-aaral at mabigyan ng magandang buhay ang kanyang mga magulang, nagsikap siyang maging sundalo,” the President stated.
He added, “Sa kabila ng mga pagsubok sa buhay, sa kabila ng kahirapan, at sa kabila ng pangungulila sa kanyang pamilya, nagawa pa niyang makuha ang pinakamataas na karangalan sa kanyang klase. At ngayon, maisusulat na ni Cadet First Class Ticar Jr. ang bagong kabanata ng kanilang buhay.”
Call to Serve with Honor and Love
As the nation’s Commander-in-Chief, the President reminded the new officers that an entire nation respects and believes in them. “Wherever your duty may take you, may it be in the mountains, in the seas, or communities, serve with dignity, serve with honor, serve with love,” he urged.
He also offered encouragement for difficult times, saying, “And I hope that when you are at your lowest, you will remember that you have your fellow Filipinos who are praying for you and are supporting you and are behind you.”
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