Unity in the face of rapidly evolving security challenges took center stage during the 2026 Alumni Homecoming of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) held Saturday, February 21, at Fort Gregorio del Pilar in Baguio City.
In a report by RH Edniel Parrosa on RH Balita, generals, active and retired officers, politicians, and leaders from various sectors gathered for the annual tradition of the academy’s graduates.
According to PMA Public Affairs chief Lt. Jessy Saludo, around 4,200 attendees flocked to the academy grounds for this year’s festivities. Of the total, approximately 1,741 alumni were recorded present as of 9:50 a.m. Saturday.
Among those in attendance were Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. of Makatao Class of 1989 and the most recent PMA graduate to serve as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, PGen Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. of Tanglaw Diwa Class of 1992.
Serving as “guest of honor and speaker“ was Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, a member of Matatag Class of 1971 and former PNP chief. Lacson was accorded arrival honors upon his appearance at the parade grounds.
In his keynote address, Lacson underscored the increasingly complex challenges awaiting PMA cadets and future cavaliers amid a shifting global and domestic security landscape. He cited the rapid rise of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and drone warfare as factors redefining modern defense and law enforcement operations.
Despite modern security concerns, Lacson reminded attendees of this year’s homecoming theme: “Fostering Unity and Excellence: Strengthening Bonds and Advancing Traditions.”
He emphasized that unity within the academy’s ranks remains a cornerstone of effective service to the nation.
Based from the academy data, it showed that the PMA has produced 12,107 graduates since its founding in 1906. The oldest alumnus present at this year’s homecoming was a 92-year-old member of Class ’56, while the youngest attendee was a 21-year-old fresh graduate from last year’s class.
During the ceremony, two cadets were briefly removed from formation after experiencing dizziness in the middle of the rites. Organizers said the incident did not affect the continuation of the parade and program.
The annual gathering, organized by the PMA Alumni Association, remains one of the academy’s most anticipated traditions, bringing together generations of cavaliers in a celebration of shared history, service, and commitment to national security.
