BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — A total of 370 plebes started their formal training at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) after they took their oath and underwent the reception rites at the Borromeo Field at Fort del Pilar here recently.
The “reception rites” is a simple yet meaningful ceremony to test and gauge the physical strength of the plebes before the formal start of their training. Traditionally, this signals the start of their regimented military life and their gradual transformation from civilians into professional and disciplined young military leaders.
“The significance of reception rites in military institutions cannot be overstated. They hold a profound significance in the military tradition marking the transition from civilian life to the rigorous and disciplined world of the Armed Forces,” PMA Superintendent LtGen. Rowen Tolentino said.
He added that the rite serves as symbolic initiation from the shaving of the head to the donning of uniforms, to instill a sense of unity, discipline, and commitment among the new recruits, welcoming them into the esteemed rank of the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP).
Tolentino called on the plebe cadets of PMA Class of 2028 to recognize the importance of the ceremony and embrace the challenges as it also signifies the humble beginning from which they will emerge as leaders.
“The hardest way to get out of the Philippine Military Academy is to graduate. This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of the journey that lies before these cadets. It is a reminder that the path of success is not one of shortcuts but of dedicated effort, unwavering commitment, unyielding perseverance, and steadfast commitment to their chosen profession.”
Tolentino also expressed his gratitude to the parents and guardians of the plebes for entrusting their children to the guidance and care of the academy.
The plebes will undergo eight weeks of “beast barracks” before they will be incorporated as regular members of the CCAFP.
Tolentino said that PMA Class of 2028 is supposedly composed of 382 young men and women but only 375 reported. But before the reception, five more signified their intention to resign, bringing the final count to 370.
He shared that 14.66 percent of the plebes are from CALABARZON, 12.3 percent from the Cordillera, and the remaining are from other regions across the country. A total of 142 plebes or 37 percent are graduates of senior high school. (Debbie Gasingan-PIA CAR)
