For a century, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has been the training ground for our country’s military leaders.
Located in Baguio City, it has a long history of preparing individuals for dedicated service.
Let’s explore the PMA’s journey and commitment to excellence.
PMA Entrance Exam
Begin an exciting journey with the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) through the entrance exam.
Explore various career paths for officers and enlisted personnel, providing opportunities for growth and satisfaction in public service within this esteemed government agency.
Officer Positions:
Embrace leadership roles within the Philippine Military Academy, influencing critical decisions in military operations. Officers play a pivotal part in ensuring the security and defense of the nation.
Philippine Military Academy Exam Preparation:
Prepare for the Philippine Military Academy Entrance Exam to position yourself for success in securing a role within the Philippine Military Academy.
The exam will assess your aptitude, skills, and knowledge, ensuring that you are well-equipped for the responsibilities associated with military service.
Requirements and Qualifications:
Understand the specific requirements and qualifications for the PMA Entrance Exam.
Ensure that you meet the criteria for your desired position, and take note of any additional prerequisites that may apply.
Application Procedures:
Navigate the application procedures with precision, following the outlined steps to submit your application for the PMA Entrance Exam.
Stay informed about deadlines and submission guidelines to enhance your chances of success.
Prepare diligently for the PMA Entrance Exam, and open doors to a rewarding career with the Philippine Military Academy.
Your dedication to public service and commitment to national security will play a vital role in shaping a brighter future. Best of luck on your journey!
Philippine Military Academy (PMA) History:
For a century, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has proudly called Baguio City its home, serving as the premier officers’ training school of the Armed Forces in the Philippines.
This esteemed institution has a rich history, preparing the best Filipino men and women for military service.
Location and Visitor Experience:
Situated at Fort Gregorio del Pilar on Loakan Road, the PMA welcomes visitors to explore its grounds, witness cadets in action during drills, and visit the PMA museum.
The manicured grounds feature vintage tanks and historical military weapons.
History, Traditions, and General Information:
The roots of the Philippine Military Academy date back to October 25, 1898, with the establishment of the Academia Militar in Malolos, Bulacan.
Despite its brief existence, it laid the foundation for military education in the Philippines.
Under American colonial rule, the officer’s school of the Philippine Constabulary found its home in Baguio City in 1908.
In 1936, Commonwealth Act No. 1 formally created the Philippine Military Academy, authorizing the conferment of a Bachelor of Science degree upon graduates who completed the four-year course.
World War II interrupted the Academy’s operations, but it reopened in 1947 at Camp Henry T. Allen.
In its current location at Fort Gregorio del Pilar, Philippine Military Academy expanded its facilities and infrastructure.
The curriculum underwent significant changes in the 1960s, introducing socio-humanistic courses to provide a balanced education.
In 1993, Philippine Military Academy became a ‘Tri-Service Academy,’ offering specialized courses to prepare graduates for specific branches of service.
This transformation also marked the admission of the first female cadets in compliance with Republic Act 7192.
Academics and Graduation:
The academy offers a Bachelor of Science in National Security Management, emphasizing excellence in academics, military tactics, and sports & physical fitness.
Cadets adhere to the Honor Code, promoting integrity. Graduates receive commissions as second lieutenants in the Philippine Army and Philippine Air Force, and as ensigns in the Philippine Navy.
Recognition and Certification:
Despite a limited baccalaureate offering, the Philippine Military Academy consistently ranks among the top 100 Universities and Colleges in the Philippines for its quality education.
The academy holds ISO 9001:2015 certification.
Challenges and Achievements:
The Philippine Military Academy faced challenges such as a bomb attack in 1987 and active involvement during the August 1987 Philippine coup attempt.
Notably, in 1993, the academy admitted its first female cadets, who graduated in 1997.
Commemoration:
In 1998, President Joseph Estrada officially changed the celebration day of the academy to October 25, in honor of the Academia Militar established on October 25, 1898, in Malolos, Bulacan, during the insurgent First Philippine Republic.
Museum and Air Power Park:
The academy houses a museum showcasing historical weapons and tanks of the AFP. Additionally, the Air Power Park, opened in 2022, exhibits retired aircraft of the Philippine Air Force.
Academic Program
Headed by the dean of academics, the academic program at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) comprises both military and civilian male and female instructors.
It consists of seven departments:
1. Department of Managerial Sciences
2. Department of Mathematics
3. Department of Humanities
4. Department of Physical Sciences
5. Department of Engineering Sciences
6. Department of Social Sciences
7. Department of Information and Computing Sciences
On June 1, 2019, the PMA upgraded its academic curriculum, focusing on national security management to address growing threats.
Upon completing the 4-year program, cadets graduate with a degree in BS National Security Management and are commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants or Ensigns in the Armed Forces.
Military Program
Headed by the Commandant of Cadets, the military program oversees professional military training, character development, leadership, and physical training.
The Tactics Group, responsible for implementing the mission, comprises the following departments:
1. Department of Leadership Development
2. Department of Physical Education
3. Department of Ground Warfare
4. Department of Air Warfare
5. Department of Naval Warfare
Cadet Life
Four Classes
Unlike traditional terms like freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors, cadets are classified as follows:
- Fourth Class Cadets: The equivalent of freshmen, known as “plebes.” They undergo eight weeks of summer training, or “beast barracks,” indoctrinated into the military and cadet systems.
- Third Class Cadets: Similar to sophomores, known as “yearlings.” They adjust to life as upper class cadets, taking on responsibilities such as being “buddies” to plebes.
- Second Class Cadets: Also known as “cows,” they specialize in their chosen branch of service, taking different subjects based on their future roles.
They act as squad leaders and assume responsibilities in the absence of first class cadets.
- First Class Cadets: Known as “firsties,” they hold major positions of responsibility in the cadet chain of command.
They lead various committees, clubs, and corps squads, enjoying privileges unique to their status.
First class cadets receive military officership commissions and academic degrees in May each year.
Organization and Honor Code
The Cadet Corps at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is structured into a brigade, overseen by the highest-ranking cadet, traditionally known as the First Captain or “Baron.”
The brigade further divides into four battalions, each consisting of two companies lettered A through H (Alfa to Hawk).
Key leadership roles within the brigade, from the First Captain to platoon leaders, are held by first-class cadets. Their ranks include cadet captain and cadet lieutenant.
Second-class cadets serve as squad leaders with the rank of cadet sergeant, third-class cadets hold the rank of cadet corporal, and fourth-class cadets are cadet privates.
Honor Code and System:
The Philippine Military Academy operates under a stringent honor code that binds cadets to a foundational principle: “We, the cadets, do not lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate among us those who do.”
Major honor code violations involve cheating, lying, and stealing. Cadets facing charges for violating the honor code undergo a series of trials conducted by their peers from the Honor Committee.
If found guilty, the consequence is severe—banishment from cadetship. Notably, the honor code plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and discipline of the cadet corps.
As the Philippine Military Academy enters its next century, it continues to uphold its commitment to excellence, molding future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Conclusion:
For 100 years, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has been the place where our military leaders learn.
In Baguio City, it’s the main school for training officers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Starting in 1898, it went through changes. First in Malolos, then in Baguio in 1908, and later reopening in 1947 after World War II. The move to Fort Gregorio del Pilar gave it more space.
In the 1960s, the courses changed to include more subjects, and in 1993, the PMA started preparing graduates for specific jobs in the military. It also allowed women to join.
As the PMA celebrates 100 years, it stays true to its promise of making strong leaders for the Philippines. It’s not just a school; it’s a big part of the story of our Armed Forces.
And as it steps into the next 100 years, the PMA continues to make leaders who are ready to protect our country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Philippine Military Academy (PMA)
1. How can I begin my journey with the Philippine Military Academy?
Begin your journey by taking the PMA Entrance Exam. It’s the first step to exploring various career paths within this esteemed government agency.
2. What career opportunities are available for officers and enlisted personnel in the PMA?
The PMA offers diverse career paths for both officers and enlisted personnel, providing opportunities for growth and satisfaction in public service.
3. What roles do officers play within the PMA?
Officers in the PMA embrace leadership roles, influencing critical decisions in military operations. They play a pivotal part in ensuring the security and defense of the nation.
4. How can I prepare for the PMA Entrance Exam?
Prepare for success by dedicating time to study for the PMA Entrance Exam. The exam assesses your aptitude, skills, and knowledge, ensuring you are well-equipped for the responsibilities associated with military service.
5. What are the requirements and qualifications for the PMA Entrance Exam?
Understand the specific requirements and qualifications for the PMA Entrance Exam. Ensure that you meet the criteria for your desired position and take note of any additional prerequisites.
6. What are the application procedures for the PMA Entrance Exam?
Navigate the application procedures with precision. Follow the outlined steps to submit your application, staying informed about deadlines and submission guidelines to enhance your chances of success.
7. What is the academic program at the Philippine Military Academy like?
The academic program at the PMA comprises both military and civilian instructors. It includes seven departments, focusing on national security management. Cadets graduate with a degree in BS National Security Management and are commissioned as officers.
8. How does the military program at the PMA contribute to cadet training?
The military program, headed by the Commandant of Cadets, oversees professional military training, character development, leadership, and physical training. It includes departments such as Leadership Development, Physical Education, Ground Warfare, Air Warfare, and Naval Warfare.
9. What is the structure of the Cadet Corps at the PMA?
The Cadet Corps is structured into a brigade, overseen by the highest-ranking cadet, traditionally known as the First Captain or “Baron.” The brigade further divides into four battalions, each consisting of two companies. Cadets hold various ranks based on their class.
10. How does the Honor Code work at the PMA?
The PMA operates under a stringent honor code that binds cadets to a foundational principle of not lying, cheating, stealing, or tolerating those who do. Violations involve a series of trials, and severe consequences include banishment from cadetship.
11. What are the challenges and achievements of the Philippine Military Academy?
The PMA faced challenges such as a bomb attack in 1987 and active involvement during the August 1987 Philippine coup attempt. Notably, in 1993, the academy admitted its first female cadets, who graduated in 1997.
12. Is there a museum at the PMA?
Yes, the academy houses a museum showcasing historical weapons and tanks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
13. What is the significance of October 25th in PMA history?
October 25th is the official celebration day of the academy, in honor of the Academia Militar established on October 25, 1898, in Malolos, Bulacan.
14. Is the PMA accredited?
Despite limited baccalaureate offerings, the PMA consistently ranks among the top 100 Universities and Colleges in the Philippines for its quality education. The academy holds ISO 9001:2015 certification.
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