Introduction
In the annals of Philippine Military Academy’s (PMA) history, each year marks a milestone of excellence, camaraderie, and commitment. The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Grand Alumni Homecoming held this year on February 17, 2024 is a cherished event that brings together the esteemed alumni of the country’s premier military institution. Held annually in Baguio City, this gathering serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of honor, duty, and service instilled in every cadet who passes through the hallowed halls of the academy.
A Celebration of Camaraderie and Service, 50 years of Marangal Class
Alumni from different batches come together to reminisce about their shared experiences, forge new connections, and honor the sacrifices made by their fellow servicemen and women. It is a time to reflect on the values imparted by the academy and renew their commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in service to the nation. The event, attended by 1,696 PMA alumni, marked the 50th anniversary of the Marangal Class of 1974, of which the guest Speaker, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri is an honorary member. Other class members include Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Rear Admiral Rogelio Calunsag, Lt. Gen. Horacio Tolentino and Gen. Avelino Razon.
Honoring Heroes and Trailblazers
One of the highlights of the event is the recognition of distinguished alumni who have excelled in their respective fields and made significant contributions to society. Twenty-two alumni and partner-stakeholders of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) were given tribute as they returned to the hallowed grounds.
Cavalier Salvador Peran, 89, of PMA Class 1964 was the oldest alumni in attendance, while the youngest was Cavalier Second Lieutenant Maecy Bautista, 22, of Class 2023.
During the event, five retired military officials were awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their more than 50 years of dedicated and unblemished service to the country; Police Maj. Gen. Thompson Lantion (Ret.) of Class ’69; current National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Director and Police Lt. Gen. Ricardo de Leon (Ret.) of Class ’71; Police Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Velasco (Ret.) of Class ’71; Col. Alejandro Flores Jr. (Ret.) of Class ’72; and Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr. (Ret.) of Class ’74.
Two awardees received the Pandemic Heroes Award in recognition of their efforts to fight and end the COVID-19 pandemic. They were Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario (Ret.) of PMA Class ’84, who headed the One Stop Shop Management of returning overseas Filipinos; and Enrique Razon Jr., head of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. and honorary member of PMA Class of 1988, who initiated the procurement and facilitated the roll-out of vaccines, and built testing, isolation, quarantine, and vaccination facilities.
Meanwhile, 15 alumni have been given the Cavalier Award—the highest recognition from the PMA Alumni Association, Inc. to an alumnus or alumni who displayed remarkable achievements and performance in their fields during the last five years.
The Cavalier Awardees were Capt. Roberto Yap (Ret.) of Class ’82 (private enterprise); Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo (Ret.) of Class ’90 (special field, retired officer category); Maj. Gen. Arturo Rojas of Class ’90 (command and administration); Maj. Gen. Eric Noble (Ret) of Class ’92 (staff function), Police Brig. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque of Class ’92 (police operations); loilo Rep. Raul Tupas (Ret.) of Class ’94 (public administration); Col. Ferdinand Marcelino of Class ’94 (special operations); Co. Joey Fontiveros of Class ’94 (special field, active officer category); Col. Von Albert Sumergido of Class ’95 (army operations, senior officer category); Coast Guard Commodore Allen Dalangin of Class ’95 (coast guard operations, senior officer category); Col. Lee Sarpamones of Class ’99 (air operations, senior officer category); Coast Guard Capt. Larry Cendaña of Class ’03 (Coast Guard operations, junior officer category); Maj. Ernest Dela Cuadra of Class ’07 (air operations, junior officer category); Capt. Mark Erick Garcia of Class ’12 (naval operations, junior officer category); and 1Lt. Cielo Rose Dolorican of Class ’18 (army operations, junior officer category).
From military leaders to industry pioneers, the PMA takes pride in honoring its heroes and trailblazers, whose achievements inspire the next generation of cadets to aim for greatness.
Rekindling Memories in Baguio City
Baguio City, with its cool climate and scenic vistas, provides the perfect backdrop for the PMA Grand Alumni Homecoming. Alumni and their families gather in this picturesque mountain retreat to reconnect with old friends, revisit familiar haunts, and create new memories that will last a lifetime. The city’s vibrant culture and rich history add to the allure of the event, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Strengthening Bonds and Building Bridges
Beyond the festivities, the PMA Grand Alumni Homecoming serves a deeper purpose: to strengthen bonds and build bridges across generations. As alumni from different eras come together, they share stories, wisdom, and advice, creating a sense of continuity and solidarity that transcends time. These connections not only foster mentorship and support but also ensure that the legacy of the academy endures for generations to come.
The alumni association also honored the Jubilarian class of PMA Batch 1964, the golden class of Batch 1974, the silver class of Batch 1999, and the senior host class of Batch 1994.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Philippine Military Academy Grand Alumni Homecoming in Baguio City is a time-honored tradition that celebrates the spirit of excellence, camaraderie, and service. Celebrated during the Panagbenga Festival, It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the academy and the profound impact it has had on the lives of its alumni.
Watch the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Homecoming Event as it is held at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City. Celebrated annually as part of the Panagbenga Festival.
