President Marcos to PMA Class of 2026: Be loyal to Constitution, not individuals

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Talang Dangal” Class of 2026 to uphold unwavering loyalty to the Constitution rather than to individuals.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity, honor, and discipline as they begin their military service.

During the ceremony, the President reminded the 207 graduating cadets that their allegiance must remain dedicated to the nation and the Constitution, rather than to any political or personal interests.

“As you take your oath today, remember that your loyalty is not to any political interest, not to any individual, nor any passing ideology,” President Marcos said.

“Your loyalty must always remain with the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines,” the President added.

Marcos also urged the new officers to consistently observe the PMA Honor Code throughout their careers.

“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,” President Marcos said.

He warned that silence in the face of wrongdoing undermines their values and duty to the country.

“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 you have sworn to defend.”

The President also noted that modern military service now involves confronting a wider range of threats, including cyberattacks, disinformation, territorial tensions, and climate-related disasters.

He said the PMA has begun updating its curriculum to include training in data science, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, Python foundations, and unmanned systems to prepare future officers for evolving challenges.

Marcos added that despite technological advances, the core strength of a soldier remains rooted in discipline, honor, and integrity.

He also congratulated the top achievers of the class, led by valedictorian Christine Kaye Demisana Librada.

The President said the class name “Talang Dangal,” short for Tagapagtanggol ng Lahing Dakila at Marangal, symbolizes a new generation of officers expected to embody courage, loyalty, and integrity.

He ended by expressing confidence in the graduates as they begin their service to the country under the vision of a stronger “Bagong Pilipinas.”

“Bilang inyong Commander-in-Chief, naniniwala ako sa inyong kakayahan. Naniniwala ako na tapat kayong maglilingkod sa kapwa ninyo Pilipino at sa ating Inang Bayan,” the President said.

“Today, I share with you the noble duty of protecting the Filipino people. Let us continue marching towards a more secure, peaceful, and stronger Bagong Pilipinas.”

-Paraluman News