There is no easy road to success, only mountains to conquer to reach the peak.
For Police Cadet Marc Joseph L. Vitto of Oriental Mindoro, the journey to the top of the Sinaglawin Class of 2025 of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) is full of purpose, perseverance, and passion to serve.
Finishing as Rank 1, Vitto also received the Journalism Kampilan, Best in Forensic Science and Best in Education awards.
Vitto excelled academically even from a young age. He has been a consistent top of the class since elementary school, and these achievements became a way to give back to his parents—especially to his father, his role model and a dedicated police officer.
“I want to repay the hardship of my father. One way I could do that when I was young was through my achievements—to make them proud,” he shared. My achievements made my parents happy, and I want to protect those smiles,” he recalled.
Though he has a good academic background, Vitto was not exempt from life’s challenges. He initially pursued a degree in medical technology at a well-known university in Manila, with a high hope of gaining a full scholarship.
“I decided to enroll despite our financial status. I know my parents can’t afford the cost of tuition. I forced it because I’m confident I’ll get a full scholarship,” he said.
But his scholarship didn’t push through. Everything went downhill since.
“I remember during my birthday I was kicked out of my apartment, my brother was not there, and my cellphone was broken, and I had no means of communication with my parents.”
Vitto questioned his decisions but chose not to give up. During this time, he saw the advertisement for PNPA on Facebook. He did research about the academy and benefits of being a cadet and considered a different path.
“I realized that being a police officer, just like my father, is meaningful. It has the same goal as being a medtech—to save lives and to be of service to people.”
He then applied but failed. Though he was disappointed about the outcome, his father became a source of strength. When the opportunity came for another shot at his PNPA dream, everything aligned for him.
“I think the talent, skills, and abilities are there to help the people, and that is my calling.”
Though there are challenges in being a police officer, Vitto takes the pressure and high expectations positively.
“To be top of the class, I will use the lessons and knowledge we gain in the academy and also the virtues and attitude instilled by PNPA—Justice, Integrity, and Service,” and I will live with the PNPA mantra and honor code, “We, the cadets, do not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate among us those who do.”
The challenges he conquered became a step closer to his dream and purpose.
“I am also thankful to PNPA for providing an environment where cadets can thrive, excel, and develop to our full potential to be able to give quality service that the Filipino people deserve.
His experience is a testament to his dedication. Mountains may be high, but he conquered them with determination and hard work. (KA-PIA4a)
