(Photo by Western Command AFP)
BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Siklab-Laya” Class of 2025 have reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the nation’s sovereignty.
The PMA Siklab-Laya Class of 2025 pioneered the Joint Field Training Exercise at the Pag-asa Island in April 2025. (Photo courtesy: PMA)
Siklab-Laya is the pioneer class to conduct the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX) on Pag-asa Island in Palawan in April 2025, giving them an overview of the current national security landscape.
Cadet First Class Joana Marie Viray shared that going to Pag-asa Island is an eye-opener for them especially in protecting the maritime domain of the nation.
“As [a] graduating cadet, I see that it’s a stepping platform for us to especially assess our maritime environment and also for us to uphold, once we graduate, the maritime domain … as well as how we’re going to engage upon strategic and lawful approach in terms of our sovereignty,” Viray said during the recent Kapihan sa PMA.
She shared that in engaging with the communities, they have seen the strong support of the people for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
According to Cadet Kristine Kate Senados, some of the communities expressed fear yet the presence of the military post and military troops on the island fostered a sense of security among the residents.
Senados said this made them realize their future roles in the armed forces.
“That somehow emphasized the realities of the cadets here and our future roles in the Armed Forces of the Philippines that we are not just there to impose our military duties but we are also there to inspire the community; that we are ready to serve and we are ready to uphold the ideals of our armed forces,” Senados said.
During the JFTX, the cadets were exposed to simulations on joint planning, naval maneuvers, and aerial and sea combat scenarios. They also conducted outreach programs and interacted with the residents and children.
The concept of this year’s JFTX aligns with the military’s shift to external defense operations and adoption of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
The PMA Siklab-Laya or Sundalong Isinilang na Kasangga at Lakas ng Ating Bayan para sa Kalayaan is composed of 266-strong members. They are set to graduate on May 17, 2025 with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the guest of honor.(JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)
