This year’s graduation of the Philippine Military Academy “Masidlawin” Class of 2020 set on May 22 will be off-limits to the public.
PMA Public Affairs Officer, Maj. Cheryl Tindog, reported Thursday that even media coverage will not be allowed. The graduation rites to be held at the Borromeo Field will be live streamed over PMA’s official Facebook page.
Parents and loved ones of the graduating cadets also will not be present during the graduation rites.
It was not immediately known if President Rodrigo Duterte, the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with ranking military and police officers, will grace the event.
It has been a tradition for the President, Vice President, Defense secretary, and chiefs of the major three branches of the AFP to present sabers to top graduating cadets.
Even the other graduation activities, such as the “Ring Hop” ceremonies were cancelled, as the Academy has been strictly enforcing protocols to protect all cadets from the Covid-19 infection.
Fort del Pilar, home of PMA, has been closed to the public since March 16.
Tindog announced other significant information and details of the graduation ceremonies are yet to be finalized.
She said other official announcements about this year’s graduation rites will be provided when the final information is available.
It was not immediately known if how many cadets will comprise the PMA “Masidlawin” Class of 2020.
The graduation is usually ushered in with the announcement of the top 10 graduates, including special awardees such as those who excelled in journalism, sports, and mathematics, among other awards.
Graduates will be assigned in the three major services of AFP: Army, Navy, and Air Force. – Harley F. Palangchao
